Teachers at St Cuthbert's Roman Catholic High School in Rochdale, attended by Oldham students, will strike for nine days over workload, pupil behaviour, and alleged unsafe working conditions. NASUWT members began industrial action on February 24, with the school closing to Years 7-10 pupils while Year 11 students attend for mock exams. The trust running the school claims it has addressed concerns and will continue dialogue, while the union says staff feel unsafe and pupils are being failed. Strikes are scheduled in three rounds through March 12.
Oldham schools have seen multiple achievements and initiatives in 2025. Mavis Clegg, a former headteacher, passed away aged 92. The ELSEC language development programme is being piloted in nine areas including Oldham. GCSE and A-Level students achieved strong results. Professor Brian Cox returned to his hometown to inspire students. New initiatives include breakfast clubs, SEND provision, and outdoor learning spaces. Schools are also implementing safety measures and sustainable travel programs.
Oldham schools across Royton have come together to celebrate the festive season by boosting children's literacy skills through the Making It REAL (Raising Early Achievement in Literacy) programme. The Christmas literacy event forms part of Oldham Council's ongoing efforts to support early childhood development. Families have been actively participating in various literacy-focused activities designed to enhance children's reading and communication abilities. The programme aims to give young children in Oldham the best possible start in life through improved literacy skills. Parents have reported positive outcomes, with one noting how the initiative has significantly boosted their child's confidence in conversations.
Forty families from Heyside Pre-School and Blackshaw Lane Primary School participated in a Christmas literacy event as part of Oldham Council's 'Making It REAL' programme. The event featured festive activities including reading Christmas books, making cards and decorations, and drawing festive images. The programme, based on research from the University of Sheffield, aims to create positive home learning environments and has engaged 130 children across 17 schools in Oldham. Parents reported improved engagement and literacy development in their children, while staff highlighted strengthened community links between schools.