A bitter dispute at Bollin Primary School in Bowdon, Cheshire, has led to its closure, with parents and staff sharply divided over the leadership of headteacher Michelle Brindle. The school was shut on Monday after 16 grievances were filed against Mrs Brindle, teachers went on strike, and parents launched petitions and protests.
Trafford Council intervened and closed the school until further notice, insisting Mrs Brindle has not been sacked or suspended. However, parents claim their children were told in an assembly that deputy head Hayley Marshall would take over. A video also emerged showing staff and parents toasting at a party, chanting 'getting sacked in the morning'.
Mrs Brindle's previous role at Golborne St Thomas' Christian school in Wigan was marred by allegations of bullying. Howard Morris, whose wife Caroline worked there, compared her to Roald Dahl's Miss Trunchbull, saying she was 'threatening and a bully'. At Bollin, relationships have become 'toxic', with one parent likening her style to a 'dictatorship'.
Problems began when Mrs Brindle paid for a mock Ofsted inspection, leading to new rules that increased teacher workload. Children reported seeing teachers crying, and a long-serving staff member was suspended. Fourteen teachers and two assistants lodged grievances, and eight governors resigned. Parents set up a WhatsApp group to discuss concerns, but Mrs Brindle sent letters warning of legal action over 'damaging' social media posts.
A mother said: 'She's come here and ruined our school. We're an outstanding school. I just feel like she's tried to sabotage the school.' Earlier this month, 17 of 21 teachers walked out, and over 900 people signed a no-confidence petition. The National Union of Teachers said no compromise was reached with the head.
The school remained closed on Tuesday as staff met with Trafford Council. Parents have been left in the dark, relying on news reports for updates. One parent vowed: 'We will not put our kids in that school with that headteacher. She's like a dragon.'
