The Headteacher of Linaker Primary in Southport declared “this award belongs to every member of our school community” as they won the coveted Sefton School of The Year Award.
Linaker Primary was rewarded for its excellence as Mark Cunniffe and his team were presented with their trophy by Southport Education Group Principal CEO Michelle Brabner at the 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards.
The awards took place in a glittering ceremony at The Grand in Southport on Friday 25th April 2026, hosted by former Sky Sports News presenter Fraser Dainton and attended by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside Peter Oliver OBE and the Mayor of Sefton, Cllr June Burns.
Linaker Primary was selected ahead of two fellow Finalists – The Pines at Redgate Primary School and Maghull High School – with judges recognising the school for ‘showing what it truly means to be the heart of a community’.
Linaker Primary School is part of the Endeavour Learning Trust, a growing multi academy trust across Lancashire and the broader North West.
Linaker was recognised for being ‘at the heart of the Southport community’ with examples of this support including wrap around care, the school’s free breakfast club, the baby and toddler group, and parent coffee mornings that the school hosts.
Mark Cunniffe, Headteacher of Linaker Primary School, said:
“This award belongs to every member of our school community including our staff, our children, our families and our neighbours.
“To be recognised in this way, alongside so many remarkable people and organisations from across Sefton, is deeply humbling.
“Linaker has always been more than a school. We are part of this community, and this community is part of us. This award is a reflection of that bond.”
The recognition comes during a period in which Linaker has been at the centre of the Southport community in the most profound sense.
The school is known across the town for its warmth, resilience and its unwavering commitment to the children and families it serves.
The 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards celebrated selfless, talented and courageous people across 13 categories at The Grand in Southport on 24th April 2026.
The Main Award was won by Queenscourt Hospice founder Dr Karen Groves MBE.
The evening was hosted by former Sky Sports News presenter Fraser Dainton with VIP guests including HM Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside Peter Oliver OBE and Mayor of Sefton Cllr Burns.
Funds were raised on the night for the ICU Steps charity, which supports patients in intensive care and their families.
The Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards are organised by Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport in association with media partners In Demand Radio with support from Southport BID.
There are 13 categories including Child of Courage, School Of The Year, Community Impact, Charity Champion and more, plus the Main Award.
Next year’s event takes place on Friday 30th April 2027.
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