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The UK’s most inspiring schools, teachers, and trusts took centre stage at the 2025 Tes Schools Awards last night.

The awards, dubbed the ‘Oscars of education’ and now in its 17th year, recognises the very best teachers, schools and trusts from UK state and independent schools, across early years settings, primary and secondary.

Winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges, including school leaders and sector experts. Across 23 award categories, the chosen schools and educators represent the very best of UK education, highlighting distinction in every corner of the sector.

Commenting on the Awards, Rod Williams, CEO of Tes, said: “A special congratulations to all the winners and finalists at this year’s Tes Schools Awards. The remarkable achievements of state and independent schools, teachers, and trusts that were celebrated this evening are a powerful demonstration of the excellence and dedication driving UK education.”

Tes is also proud to partner with strategic sponsors for the awards, which this year included: Disney on Stage, PGL Beyond, and Penguin.

Secondary School of the Year winner:

Anna Richardson, Principal of Oasis Academy South Bank, said: “We’re thrilled to be recognised for our commitment to our incredible community. This award is testament to the hard work of every member of our staff team.”

Inclusive Trust of the Year winner:

Tim James, Director of Inclusion at The White Horse Federation (TWHF), said: "On behalf of The White Horse Federation, I’m honoured to accept the Tes Inclusive Trust of the Year Award. Inclusion is our foundation - it shapes how we think, teach, lead, and care. We don’t ask pupils to fit the system; we shape the system to fit every pupil. True inclusion is a journey, and while there’s more to do, tonight we celebrate how far we’ve come - together."

Michelle Evans, Head of Education at PGL Beyond, said:

“Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding work in inspiring the next generation. We understand the importance of creating breakthroughs for young people, and know that these are happening every day through the work of these educators.”

Nancy Shakerley, Education & Audience Engagement Manager at Disney on Stage:

“Congratulations to all the incredible winners. It’s both inspirational and exciting to see such passion and hard work recognised in education this evening. We’re delighted to sponsor Tes to showcase the importance of the work that the sector does as well as its standout achievements.”

The winners were announced on Friday, 20th June at a gala awards night at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London. 

More information about the winners will be available 9am Monday morning: https://www.tes.com/en-gb/schools-awards

Award

Winner

Region

Trust of the year - 9 schools or Fewer

Canonium Learning Trust

East

Best Use of Technology

Abingdon House School

Greater London

Subject Lead of the Year (Secondary)

William McWhirter – Kingsdale Foundation School

Greater London

Trust of the year - 10 schools or More

The Harris Federation

Greater London

Independent Prep School of the Year

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery

Greater London

Secondary School of the Year

Oasis Academy South Bank

Greater London

Excellence in Creative Arts

Cragside Primary School

North East

Independent Senior School of the Year

Royal Grammar School, Newcastle

North East

Community Engagement Initiative of the Year

Pioneer House School

North West

Pupil Mental Health Initiative of the Year

Carr Mill Primary School

North West

Specialist Provision School Leader of the Year

Louise Curran – Rowan Tree Primary School

North West

Specialist Provision School of the Year

Three Towers Alternative Provision

North West

Headteacher of the Year (State)

Louise Edgerton – Hyndland Secondary School

Scotland

Lifetime Achievement Award

Professor Barnaby Lenon CBE

South East

Teaching Assistant of the Year

Jackie Lunt – King’s Academy Lord Wilson

South East

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Setting of the Year

Edgeborough School

South East

Inclusive Trust of the Year

The White Horse Federation

South West

Primary School of the Year

East Wichel Primary School & Nursery

South West

Staff Wellbeing School of the Year

Selly Park Girls School

West Midlands

Primary Curriculum Leader of the Year

Mia Bano – Arden Primary School

West Midlands

Inclusive School of the Year

Ninestiles, an Academy

West Midlands

Boarding School of the Year

Bredon School

West Midlands

Headteacher of the Year (Independent)

Sue Woodroofe – The Grammar School at Leeds

Yorkshire and the Humber

 

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