Anjie Falana, a Year 11 student at �ԹϺ��� Academy Riverside, is celebrating after being awarded a life-changing scholarship to attend the Sixth Form at the renowned Yarm School in September.

The highly competitive scholarships at Yarm School are awarded based on a rigorous assessment process, including entrance examinations and interviews, and are often supported by means-tested bursaries to ensure that the highest calibre of students can access a world-class education regardless of financial background. The award, which covers 100% of tuition fees, is a powerful recognition of Anjie’s academic distinction and her exemplary personal character.

Anjie plans to focus her Post-16 studies on a diverse curriculum, selecting Psychology, Religious Studies, and Business Studies. She said:

“I am delighted to be given this opportunity; I am very proud of myself and I am excited to see where this takes me.”

This achievement marks the third student from �ԹϺ��� Academy Riverside to secure such a pathway in the last two years, highlighting the academy’s commitment to placing students in the best educational environments in the country. Last year, Abdul Bazina, then Head Boy at the academy, secured a place at Eton College on a full scholarship as a recipient of the Orwell Award, while Hisain Marzug performed exceptionally well on the entrance exams for Harrow School and was granted admission with a 95% bursary.

Melissa Brant-Smith, principal at �ԹϺ��� Academy Riverside, said:

“I am bursting with pride to see Anjie accepted to Yarm School. This is a truly life-changing opportunity and a testament to Anjie’s exceptional work ethic and the academic ambition we foster here at �ԹϺ��� Academy Riverside.

“Anjie’s success marks a wonderful milestone for us; following two students who secured similar scholarships last year, she continues a growing tradition of our students accessing the very best educational pathways available. It is a joy to see our students’ hard work and the dedication of our staff rewarded on such a prestigious stage.”

Anjie’s success is also a moment of immense pride for her family, who have watched her develop into a determined and responsible young leader.

Anjie’s Mother added:

“Anjie is very respectful, very independent and self-motivated. She always wants to outdo her previous performance; she’s a very responsible and caring person, and I’m very proud to be her mum.”

While the scholarship is a significant milestone, it remains conditional upon Anjie achieving her predicted grades in her upcoming GCSE examinations this summer. The entire school community does not doubt that she will continue to excel and serve as an outstanding ambassador for the academy as she moves on to this next chapter.

Rated as ‘Good’ by Ofsted, �ԹϺ��� Academy Riverside, part of the �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools, is committed to providing a high-quality education that transforms the life chances of its students in the Middlesbrough area. A new state-of-the-art school building is currently under construction on land close to Middlesbrough College and the town’s railway station. Work started last summer with construction led by Bowmer + Kirkland on behalf of the Department for Education. Students are expected to move to the new site next year.

Prospective families are invited to explore the school community at an Open Evening on 16 September 2026. For further details, visit .

Originally inaugurated as Foxhills Secondary School in May 1951, by the then-Minister of Education, George Tomlinson, the school initially welcomed 400 local children.

Over the past 75 years, the institution has evolved significantly, first transitioning into a comprehensive school, then becoming Invenio Academy in 2011, and ultimately joining �ԹϺ��� (OGAT) in September 2014. Today, �ԹϺ��� Academy Foxhills stands proudly as an Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ institution, an Inclusion Quality Mark "Centre of Excellence", serving a diverse community that proudly speaks more than 24 languages.

To commemorate this historic milestone, the academy hosted a special anniversary assembly where students explored both its rich history and its bright future. Students also received cake to celebrate!

Tracy Motson, principal at �ԹϺ��� Academy Foxhills, said:

"Reaching our 75th anniversary is an incredibly proud moment for everyone associated with �ԹϺ��� Academy Foxhills. While the building, technology, and name have changed since 1951, our core mission has remained entirely unchanged: putting students first. We are proud to look back at our rich history in Scunthorpe, but even prouder of the inclusive, high-achieving environment our staff and students bring every single day. This milestone belongs to the generations of families, teachers, and community members who have walked through our doors and made our Foxhills Family.”

Sabiha Laher, Community Executive Principal, added:

"Since joining the �ԹϺ��� Family in 2014, Foxhills has consistently shown our vision of raising standards and transforming lives. Celebrating 75 years is a testament to the school's resilience, deep roots in North Lincolnshire, and its unwavering commitment to providing a broad, balanced, and ambitious education for every child, regardless of their background."

From its humble beginnings with just nine classrooms, domestic science spaces, and a single science lab, the academy has grown into a beacon of modern education. Today, it balances an ambitious curriculum, ensuring that every student is equipped with the skills and life chances needed to succeed in the modern world.

The academy invites former students, staff, and members of the local community to share their memories, photographs, and stories of Foxhills over the decades by contacting the school at enquiries@foxhills.outwood.com

In a world of intensely polarised public discourse – and with votes for British 16-year-olds on the horizon – there has never been a more important time to equip children with the knowledge to understand and navigate current affairs. Today, a new national Current Affairs Education Commission launches, chaired by the UK’s biggest political Substacker, Sam Freedman, and convened by The Economist Educational Foundation. Working with ImpactEd Group, the commission will explore how schools can best help children make sense of the news in an age of AI and 24 hour content.

The Current Affairs Education Commission will bring together school leaders, broadcasters, academics, AI experts and young people to co-design the research and recommendations. Confirmed commissioners include:

• Emma-Louise Amanshia (BBC Newsround)

• Shuab Gamote (co-author of Inside the Mind of a 16-Year-Old)

• Nick Canning (Faculty AI)

• Sir Dan Moynihan (CEO of Harris Federation)

• Carol Dewhurst OBE (Bradford Diocese Academies Trust)

• Jo Heaton OBE (Northern Lights Learning Trust)

• Flora Letanka (Economist Educational Foundation)

• Annemarie Whittle (Kent Catholic Schools Partnership)

• Bryden Joy (Ormiston Academies Trust)

• Dan Morrow (Cornwall Education Learning Trust)

• Jennese Alozie (University of Chichester Academy Trust)

• Lee Wilson (�ԹϺ���)

• Louise Lee (The Howard Partnership Trust)

• Vic Goddard (Passmores Cooperative Learning Community)

Over the next six months, the Commission will gather insights from teachers and pupils on their perceptions of teaching and learning about current affairs and hear from expert groups on:

• Critical thinking, social media and AI - What makes current affairs a uniquely challenging, but also uniquely valuable, context for applying critical thinking skills, and how this is changing in an age of social media and AI?

• The cost of disengagement - Who is responsible for keeping young people informed, including the role of the media.

• How can we teach it? - Why does current affairs education matter for young people, what does it look like when it works, and what is getting in the way of teachers delivering it well?

The group will share findings and recommendations before the end of the year.

Speaking about the Commission launch, Chair Sam Freedman said:

“Young people have far more access to information about what’s happening in the world than ever before, but it can be hard for them to make sense of it all, especially when so much of it misleading or wrong. I’m always sceptical about asking schools to do more but it’s hard to see how we can deal with this challenge without using the education system to help give pupils a framework for understanding”

Convening Commissioner Flora Letanka, CEO of The Economist Educational Foundation said:

“High-quality current affairs discussion is schools is rare. In an age of mass polarisation, global instability, and high-speed technological change, I believe that the ability to navigate the news should be a fundamental right for all children, regardless of background. I am excited to convene such an eminent and diverse group of commissioners and experts to discover how deep the crisis is and develop recommendations that work.”

Commissioner and CEO of Northern Lights Learning Trust, Jo Heaton said:

“I am really excited to be part of this commission into Current Affairs Education at a time in our country when I believe it is vital our young people understand how to think and evaluate with insight, independence and resilience, acting as citizens who will shape the future of things in our region and our country. I am delighted to be part of something so important, that will contribute to shaping this, as well as hearing from our young people on how we can work together to achieve this.”

Commissioner and Broadcaster Emma-Louise Amanshia added:

“I think it's so important for every child to understand the world around them and have a safe space to learn and ask questions about the headlines.”

The Commission is keen to hear from the sector. If you have evidence or examples of great practice, please share them here: . You can also sign up for the newsletter at to follow the work as it develops.

Fourteen-year-old Maja Daniszewska, who attends �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, was honoured at the Nottinghamshire Police Nxt Gen Awards ceremony, which shines a light on the achievements of outstanding young people across Nottinghamshire.    

Maja was chosen as a finalist for the School Empowerment Award, in recognition of her improved behaviour and positive attitude despite the extremely difficult personal challenges she has faced. 

Maja was nominated by a Schools and Early Intervention Officer, PC Jemma Fenn, who said she had witnessed her ‘extraordinary journey of personal growth and resilience’ since she began working with Maja in April 2024. 

PC Fenn said:

“When I first met her, Maja often struggled with behaviour and decision-making, frequently becoming involved in peer conflict and finding herself sanctioned as a result. Despite this, it was always clear she had enormous potential and a caring nature beneath the surface. 

“Last year proved to be extremely difficult for Maja, as she faced the devastating loss of her mum. Her life was turned upside down, and this could easily have caused her to spiral, especially at such a vulnerable age, but actually, she has used it as a positive. 

“Her younger brother moved into the family home, and she took on the responsibility of caring for him. She wanted to be a positive influence on him, to make sure that he didn’t make the choices and mistakes that she made. 

“Her desire to steer her younger brother away from going down the wrong path shows the depth of her character and how far she has come.

"She is aware of what negative influences can lead to and is determined to break that cycle, not only for herself but for him as well.” 

She added:

“Maja’s transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. At her first check-in of the 2025/2026 academic year, Maja set herself a clear and determined goal: to improve her grades and behaviour. 

“From that moment onwards, she has worked tirelessly to achieve exactly that, with only a few hiccups along the way. Her dedication has been noticed by staff, peers and those closest to her. 

“She now seeks out support when she needs it, instead of reacting impulsively to situations that once landed her in trouble. This shift alone shows remarkable self-awareness and emotional growth. 

“With support from her learning managers, the school team, SEIO, and those around her, Maja has demonstrated maturity far beyond her years. 

“She approached her grief and the obstacles it brought with courage and openness, and she allowed the adults supporting her to guide her through the toughest of times.

"I feel privileged to be one of those people she trusted to share this part of her life with.” 

Maja, who is currently in Year 9, said:

“I used to be really bad in Year 7, but I feel like I’m doing way better now. I’ve started to focus more, and I think I’ve definitely improved.” 

As well as caring for her younger brother, Maja also looks after her elderly father, who has also been a big factor in her progress. 

She added:

“I really want to make my dad proud and really happy with what I do in school now. 

“My teachers have helped me a lot, so I want to say a big thank you to them. If I’m upset, I can go to them and tell them how I’m feeling, and they help me a lot. I feel like I can definitely open up to them more now.” 

The glittering Nxt Gen Awards ceremony - highlighting the inspirational achievements of young people from across Nottinghamshire – was held at the Nottinghamshire Police headquarters on Friday 8 May. More than 120 young people were nominated this year. 

In total, 14 winners and runners-up were recognised on the night, honouring young people who have shown exceptional resilience, selflessness, and talent, or who have overcome adversity to inspire others. 

Aimee Pattison, a Year 9 student at �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby, was praised by her school for her ‘outstanding leadership, initiative, reliability, and genuine commitment to improving the lives of others both within school and in the wider community.’

Aimee, who currently serves as Student Prime Minister at her school, has led on numerous projects, including:

• Advocating for improvements to school toilet facilities for the benefit of all students

• Organising and leading a bake sale, which raised hundreds of pounds for the Young Minds mental health charity

• Coordinating donations of food and essential supplies to the local foodbank in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, strengthening the school’s connection with the local community and supporting those in need

Her initiative and ‘unwavering commitment to positive change’ were among the reasons Aimee was nominated and chosen as a finalist for the Leadership Award.

This accolade forms part of Nottinghamshire Police’s Nxt Gen Awards, an annual scheme which highlights the inspirational work of young people across the county.

Aimee was among the shortlisted award finalists whose achievements were heralded at a glittering awards ceremony held at force headquarters on Friday (8 May).

History teacher Ryan Spencer, who nominated Aimee for the award, said:

“Aimee is a role model for the entire school community. She leads by example, setting high standards for herself and inspiring her team to do the same.

“She doesn’t wait to be told what to do; instead, she regularly proposes her own initiatives, carefully thought through and rooted in genuine need.

"She is highly organised, follows through on commitments, and can be relied upon to see projects through from idea to completion.”

Mr Spencer added:

“Aimee is a proud ambassador for our school and a young person who is already making a meaningful difference to the lives of others.

“Since being elected Student Prime Minister, Aimee has attended weekly Student Parliament meetings, where she consistently demonstrates maturity well beyond her years.

“In these meetings, she leads discussions with confidence, listens carefully to others, and ensures that all voices are heard.

"Her leadership is not limited to the meeting room; her influence is visible across the academy and beyond, particularly through projects that have had a tangible and lasting impact.

“Aimee is motivated by a sincere desire to make things better for others. She deeply cares about her fellow students, her school, and her community, and this empathy underpins everything she does.

"She consistently promotes positivity, hard work, and inclusivity, and she approaches challenges with determination and resilience.

"Despite her young age, she handles responsibility with confidence and professionalism, earning the respect of both students and staff.”

Aimee said:

“As Student Prime Minister, I make decisions to make the academy a better place, inform the Principal of ideas we’ve come up with, and make sure that students’ voices are heard.

“I was so excited to be nominated for the Nxt Gen Awards and shortlisted for the Leadership Award.

"I’m pretty proud of what I’ve helped to achieve within school, including the new toilets, and I’m determined to keep doing what I can to improve people’s lives and make a real difference.”

A group of Year 7 pupils has seen their creative vision travel over 9,000 miles to the frozen landscapes of Antarctica. The flag, designed by students Bobby Baggeley, Jude Gibson, Joseph Booth, and Thomas Lewis at �ԹϺ��� Academy Hindley, has successfully reached the continent as part of the UK Polar Network’s (UKPN) “Antarctic Flags” initiative.

The project, which celebrates Antarctica Day (marking the signing of the Antarctic Treaty), pairs schools with polar researchers to send hand-drawn flags to the world's southernmost continent. This year's winning design was carried to the Antarctic by two dedicated polar professionals, Joe Jackson, Third Officer on the RRS Sir David Attenborough, Britain’s state-of-the-art polar research vessel and Faron Quinn, a PhD Researcher in Antarctic Biogeochemistry, who took the flag to the remote Ryder Bay, a site of significant scientific interest near the British Antarctic Survey’s Rothera Research Station.

The UK Polar Network’s initiative aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers by connecting the classroom and real-world polar expeditions. For these Year 7 pupils, seeing their artwork photographed against the backdrop of Antarctic glaciers is a rare and prestigious achievement.

One of the student flag designers, Thomas Lewis, said:

“I am so proud that my drawing is in Antarctica. I'm thankful my work got picked to travel all the way!” 

Victoria Watson, Teacher of Geography, added:

“We are incredibly proud to see our students' creativity represented on a global stage. Designing these flags required them to think deeply about Antarctica, climate science and the importance of international cooperation. Seeing a researcher hold up our school's flag against the backdrop of the Antarctic ice gave our pupils a profound sense of connection to one of the most remote and vital environments on our planet.”   

The RRS Sir David Attenborough is one of the most advanced polar vessels in the world, serving as a multidisciplinary research platform that allows scientists to study the ocean, seafloor, and ice. The flag’s arrival at Ryder Bay further connects the students' work to critical climate and biogeochemical research currently being conducted in the region.

�ԹϺ��� (OGAT) is expanding its international partnership with the Global School Alliance (GSA), marking a new era of global citizenship for students across the regions it serves.

Following a leadership delegation to Shenzhen, China, during the October half-term holiday, the family of schools is moving forward with an ambitious exchange programme. This initiative will see its Worksop-based academies host a major Chinese delegation this summer, followed by a reciprocal student trip to China in 2027.

In June, �ԹϺ��� Academy Valley, �ԹϺ��� Academy Portland, and �ԹϺ��� Post 16 Centre Worksop will host nearly 20 students and staff from Longcheng High School in Shenzhen. As a "sister school" to �ԹϺ��� Academy Valley, Longcheng High School’s visit will provide a fully immersive British educational experience. A formal welcome assembly and celebration event will mark the strengthening of ties between Worksop and Shenzhen.

To facilitate the visit, �ԹϺ��� students will apply for roles to mentor and guide their Chinese peers. Delving into British school life, visitors will join daily lessons, enrichment activities, and collaborative workshops.

Carolyn Blundell, community executive principal at OGAT, said:

“We are delighted to be offering these educational, cultural and innovative opportunities for our students, and there is so much we can learn from our counterparts in China. I really hope that these opportunities help support our young people with their sense of global citizenship.”

The partnership extends well into the future, with over 20 Year 8 students already committed to a seven-day cultural expedition to China in April 2027. Supported by the GSA, the itinerary balances "in-school immersion" with visits to world-renowned landmarks, including Yu Gardens, the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, and the Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town. They will experience modern marvels such as The Bund, the Lujiazui financial district, and a Huangpu River cruise, and will spend three days at a partner school to experience the Chinese education system first-hand.

To ensure these life-changing opportunities are widely available, �ԹϺ��� has submitted three 'consortium' Turing Funding bids on behalf of its schools in Wakefield, Doncaster, North Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, and Sheffield. If successful, this funding will significantly subsidise overseas travel for disadvantaged students, reinforcing the Trust’s "Students First" philosophy.

Parents and school leaders are celebrating the continued success of a uniform recycling scheme designed to tackle the rising cost of living and protect the planet. Formerly known as RE:FORM, the newly rebranded RE:WEAR scheme, run by uniform provider Trutex, collects pre-loved school clothes, refurbishes them to "as-new" condition, and resells them at a discount of up to 50%.

Popular with parents and carers, last year alone, 5,016 garments were recycled by the scheme, pushing the total number of items saved by the �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools to over 15,000 since the partnership began in 2021.

The process is designed to be seamless for busy families; parents can drop off outgrown uniforms at donation points located in every �ԹϺ��� school. Trutex then launders, repairs, and repackages every item to ensure top-notch quality. The refurbished items are sold via the Trutex website, featuring interest-free payment options to further reduce financial pressure.

Beyond the price slash, the environmental impact is substantial. Extending the life of a garment by just nine months can reduce its carbon, water, and waste footprint by 20% to 30%. On top of this, many of the items, including blazers and trousers, are manufactured from 100% recycled polyester, keeping millions of plastic bottles out of landfills annually.

Katy Bradford, Deputy CEO at �ԹϺ���, said:

“Our uniform recycling scheme has seen an amazing response. Parents and carers appreciate the affordable choices, and it’s also a fantastic way to teach students about sustainability. This programme is truly benefiting our students; a clear win for all.”

Matthew Easter, CEO of Trutex, added:

“We’re delighted to be part of the continued success of the uniform recycling programme at the �ԹϺ��� family of schools. Our RE:WEAR scheme is growing widely now and really is a win-win; not only easing the financial burden for parents but also providing long-lasting garments that are better for the environment.”

Three members of staff and a parent are preparing to lace up their running shoes for this weekend's Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and Leeds Half Marathon. The group of four is running to raise vital funds for ‘�ԹϺ��� Out There,’ an award-winning initiative that empowers students to lead transformative community action projects.

The team will take to the streets of Leeds to represent �ԹϺ��� (OGAT) on Sunday, May 10th, to support a programme that has already seen thousands of young people across the �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools deliver projects ranging from revitalising green spaces to supporting local food banks and care homes.

The challenge will see three full-distance runners: Adam Appleby (Head of Performing Arts, �ԹϺ��� Academy Freeston), Savannah Giles (Office Manager, �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby), and �ԹϺ��� parent Jonny Mullooly. They are joined by Greg Wadsworth, Vice Principal at �ԹϺ��� Academy City Fields, who will be tackling the Half Marathon.

‘�ԹϺ��� Out There’ was launched to redefine the role of young people in society, based on feedback from students wanting to "get out there", change perceptions and make a difference. The programme focuses on six key areas: building relationships, sustainability, community wellbeing, inclusivity, safety, and innovation.

Jonny Mullooly said:

“As a former student and a dad to three �ԹϺ��� pupils, I am incredibly proud to represent the Trust in my 50th year. Taking on the Marathon is a personal challenge, but the real goal is supporting the Out There project. For students facing adversity or limited means, this initiative provides the cultural capital and confidence they need to become change-makers in their own communities.”

Julie Slater, chief executive principal at OGAT, added:

“Our students have shown incredible leadership and resilience through their community projects. Running the Leeds Half Marathon is a way for our colleagues and parents to show that same commitment. Every pound raised goes directly toward providing students with the resources, from project materials to experience-based prizes, helping them turn their ideas for social good into a reality.”

The 'Out There' initiative relies on fundraising and corporate sponsorship to remain accessible to all 30,000 students, particularly those in disadvantaged areas. The Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon, inspired by the late rugby league legend, is known for its challenging route and incredible atmosphere of community spirit; values that mirror the mission of Out There.

If you want to support the runners, donations can be made through JustGiving.

For more information on the initiative or to find out how to get involved with Out There, please visit

Students and staff from �ԹϺ��� Academy Riverside have had a hard hat tour of the school’s new site in Middlehaven.

The academy’s new, permanent home is being built on land close to Middlesbrough College and the town’s railway station.

Work started last summer with construction led by Bowmer + Kirkland on behalf of the Department for Education.

Students are expected to move to the new site next year.

Young people from years 7, 8 and 9 joined Principal Melissa Brant-Smith for a look around the site as excitement builds for the move.

They were joined by Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke and Deputy Mayor Philippa Storey.

Mayor Cooke said:

“This new academy is all about the dreams and future aspirations of the young people will come and learn here.

“It’s great that some of them have been able to come along and take a look around.”

Cllr Storey, who is also Executive member for Education, said:

“We want the very best environments for our children and young people and the progress on site is really exciting.”

Melissa Brant-Smith said:

"From our very first day in temporary classrooms, the spirit of Riverside has been unstoppable. To see that spirit now reflected in the scale and ambition of this new build is incredibly moving. 

“It is genuinely electrifying to stand at the perimeter and see our vision finally taking physical form; there is a palpable sense of excitement in watching the skyline change as these walls rise. 

“This isn't just a school; it’s a landmark for our community and a testament to the grit and brilliance of our students who deserve nothing less than the best."

Helen Bedford, social value manager at Bowmer + Kirkland, said:

“It was great to welcome the children to their new school to see how it is progressing. 

“We will continue to support visits and the school throughout the project with activities such as a time capsule burial, design challenges, regular updates of site progress through their student voice and promoting careers in construction.”

The construction of the new school is one of a number of regeneration projects heading towards conclusion in the town.

The Student Parliament at �ԹϺ��� Academy Danum has secured a major investment to transform student wellbeing. 

The students successfully bid for £15,000 from the �ԹϺ��� Student Voice Innovation Fund. This fund, which has £350,000 available in grants across the �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools, was created by �ԹϺ��� to put the power of change directly into the hands of students.

The grant falls into the "Large Grants" category (projects over £7,500) and will be used to install two "wellbeing pods" on school grounds. These specialised, quiet rooms are designed to provide a calm sanctuary for students who may be feeling stressed or anxious, overwhelmed by the busy school environment or in need of a safe, "quiet zone" to regulate and relax.  

By securing this funding, the students have met the fund's core criteria of Student Empowerment and Belonging, creating a lasting resource that will benefit the school community for years to come. 

The students' commitment to the school community extends beyond the school gates. Members of the Student Parliament recently organised a litter pick in local woodlands, clearing away rubbish to protect local wildlife and ensure the area remains a vibrant space for the public, preserving the beauty of the Doncaster area. The Student Parliament continues to meet weekly to develop innovative projects.

Elliot Kelly, assistant principal at the school, praised the students for their initiative, saying:

"We are so proud of our Student Parliament. They didn't just talk about problems; they found ways to fix them. Winning £15,000 is an amazing achievement! It shows that when young people are given a chance, they can do great things for their friends and their wider community."

The Student Voice Innovation Fund supports student-led projects across the �ԹϺ��� family of schools that focus on community, empowerment, and scalability. Applications are reviewed by a panel of Trust experts to ensure projects create a meaningful, lasting impact on the student experience. 

The winners will be announced at a central London ceremony on 19th June, hosted by comedian Katherine Ryan.

�ԹϺ��� (OGAT) has been shortlisted for this year’s Tes Schools Awards, which celebrate the UK’s most inspiring teachers and schools from both the state and independent sectors, following a record-breaking number of nominations. The family of schools is in the running for the title of Trust of the Year – 10 schools or more.

Since 2009, the Tes Schools Awards have celebrated the achievements of school staff and institutions across the UK. Free to enter, they bring together state and independent schools from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in one inclusive national event, recognising excellence across the education sector. 

The awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding work taking place across schools, celebrating the individuals and teams making a meaningful impact on pupils, staff and their wider communities. This year’s awards are supported by Cloud Technology Partner, Amazon Web Services, which will sponsor the ‘Best Use of Technology’ category, recognising schools driving innovation across teaching and learning. 

The shortlist was selected by a panel of expert judges, including experienced school leaders and education specialists. This year’s awards feature 23 categories spanning all areas of school life, from leadership and teaching to pupil outcomes and wellbeing.

Two new categories have been introduced for 2026 - Teacher Development of the Year and Pupil Enrichment School of the Year - reflecting the growing importance of both staff development and a well-rounded student experience. 

Rod Williams, CEO of Tes, commented:

“This year’s shortlist showcases the exceptional standard of entries across the Tes Schools Awards, reflecting the breadth of impact being delivered in UK education. Each category highlights schools and individuals who are not only driving meaningful change within their own settings, but also setting a benchmark for the wider sector. The Tes Schools Awards are designed to recognise and elevate this work, celebrating those making a measurable difference to pupils, staff and communities across the UK – and with a record number of nominations received this year, it clearly reinforces the strength and impact being delivered across the UK education sector.”

Lee Wilson, CEO at OGAT, added:

“I am incredibly proud that we have been named as a finalist in this year’s Tes Schools Awards. This isn't just an accolade for our family of schools as an organisation, but a celebration of our teachers, leaders, support staff and governors who work with such passion to transform lives. To be recognised alongside the very best in the UK is a wonderful validation of the inspiring work happening across all our academies.”

This year’s awards will be hosted by award-winning comedian, writer and presenter Katherine Ryan, with winners announced at a gala ceremony on 19th June at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.

View the full shortlist here:  

55 students from �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy were part of a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title. The record for the Most backing dancers to a singer is 1,123, achieved by Pro-Excel, Bradford Bulls RLFC, Sigala and Shanice Steele in Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK, on 20 March 2026.

This incredible achievement brought together performers from across the UK, Ireland, and the Isle of Man for a large-scale live stadium performance. �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy students were part of the event, held at Bartercard Odsal Stadium for "Dance Yorkshire ’26", performing alongside chart-topping artist SIGALA in front of fans.

The road to breaking the record required immense dedication. In the weeks leading up to the event, students committed a series of training sessions, including two full days of specialist workshops. The sessions focused on professional-grade dance choreography and vocal performance. Students also attended numerous after-school rehearsals to ensure their formations were "performance-ready" for the world stage.

Beyond the performance, students also took part in a media day, representing the school on BBC Look North and Calendar to showcase the talent and effort behind the project.

Jay Kirk, head of dance at �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy said:

“Dance Yorkshire ’26 was more than just a performance, it was a celebration of young talent and collaboration. This experience has shown what can be achieved when students are given the opportunity to work creatively and challenge themselves. We are honoured to have represented �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy and to have played our part in such a significant, record-breaking event.”

An award-winning partnership empowering young people to become “changemakers” in their communities across the North of England is entering its second year.

The �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools has announced that YPO, one of the UK’s largest public sector buying organisations, will continue its support of the �ԹϺ��� “Out There” programme for the second consecutive year, stepping up as headline sponsor.

This year, the Trust is aiming to engage 20,000 students and deliver more than 5,000 community projects, with almost 1,000 students already registered since sign-ups opened in March.

Following the programme’s successful inaugural year, which culminated in an awards ceremony at Headingley Stadium in January, the Out There initiative encourages students, aged 5-18, across all 42 �ԹϺ��� schools to give up their own time to design and lead volunteering projects.

Student teams design and deliver initiatives across six categories, headlined:

• Build Relationships

• Be a Sustainability Superstar

• Boost Community Wellbeing

• Build an Inclusive Community

• Make Your Community Safer

• Innovate

Projects range from tackling loneliness in care homes and delivering physical and mental health initiatives, to eco-friendly projects, green space improvements and neighbourhood litter reduction.

Launched in April 2025 in response to students' desire to make positive contributions to their communities, the programme has already achieved significant recognition, scooping the Community Impact Award at the 2025 Connect Yorkshire Business Awards.

In its first year, the initiative saw thousands of hours of volunteering, as students delivered more than 100 projects, ranging from "Hearts Connected," which addressed elderly isolation, to "Team Community," which supported children with limb differences.

Julie Slater, Chief Executive Principal at �ԹϺ���, commented:

“Volunteering does more than just improve local neighbourhoods; it transforms the young people who lead the charge. Our students want to flip the script and show society that they are caring, proactive leaders who take pride in their communities.

“While participating in 'Out There,' students are gaining a competitive edge by developing real-world skills like communication, teamwork, and resilience. We are incredibly grateful to YPO; their headline sponsorship provides the vital support needed for our students to become the changemakers of tomorrow.”

As a 100% publicly owned organisation, YPO’s support extends beyond the financial. The partnership includes sponsorship of the "Out There Champions Award", which sent last year's national winners, “Helping Hands” from Wakefield’s �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy, on a trip to London, complete with a visit to the O2 Arena. YPO will also provide mentoring to help students plan and deliver impactful projects.

Simon Hill, YPO’s Managing Director, added:

“YPO are proud to be this year’s �ԹϺ��� ‘Out There’ Headline Sponsor. We are dedicated to supporting community action and children’s education, particularly programmes that help young people overcome barriers and make a positive difference in their communities.

“Empowering young people with the skills, confidence and opportunities to shape their futures is central to YPO’s social value commitments, and this initiative strongly reflects that.”

Last year, YPO sponsored an award prize package for the winning students to attend. This year, the Wakefield-based organisation has expanded its sponsorship to support �ԹϺ��� in making this initiative bigger and better.

The community action projects will run until the end of August. For more information on the programme or to find out how to get involved, use the button below.

Year 8 students from �ԹϺ��� Academy Freeston in Normanton, and �ԹϺ��� Academy Shafton in Barnsley, are celebrating after being named as Regional Finalists for the Big Ideas Programme, a national STEM and enterprise competition run by Solutions for the Planet.

The competition challenges young people aged 11-14 to create innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing sustainability issues. Out of a record-breaking 149 submissions nationwide this year, only 57 teams were selected to advance to the Regional Finals.

Three standout teams from the �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools will now present their business cases to a panel of expert judges at the regional finals; two �ԹϺ��� Academy Shafton teams will present their Big Ideas at the University of Bradford on Thursday, May 14, and the �ԹϺ��� Academy Freeston team will present at the University of York on Friday, May 15, competing for a place in the National Final held at the Palace of Westminster.

As part of the programme, students are connected with business mentors to develop Big Ideas that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. By presenting at the Regional Finals, students will earn a CREST Bronze Award, recognising their high-quality work in STEM.

The Big Ideas through to the regional final from �ԹϺ��� schools are:

4ever Fizz: Aiming to tackle the crisis of single-use plastics, this team developed a reusable-bottle vending machine concept. The machine allows users to mix sparkling water with various flavoured concentrates, providing a healthier, eco-friendly alternative to traditional bottled fizzy drinks.

Electroben: Focused on energy conservation and supporting the vulnerable, Electroben is an automatic plug socket system. Using a companion app, users can schedule timers to control when electronic appliances turn on and off. The project is specifically designed to help elderly residents manage their homes more easily while significantly reducing domestic electricity waste.

Habitat Haven Alliance (HHA): Addressing the devastating impact of deforestation and habitat loss, this team proposed the creation of dedicated animal shelters for displaced or abandoned wildlife. Their project focuses on restoring biodiversity and providing a safety net for local ecosystems.

Lee Wilson, CEO at �ԹϺ��� (OGAT), said:

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their creativity and dedication. At OGAT, we believe that our students' voices and opinions are vital; they are not just learners, but architects of change in our communities. The Big Ideas Programme empowers young voices to realise they have the potential to solve global problems. Seeing two teams from Shafton and one from Freeston reach this stage is a reflection of the innovative spirit and leadership across our academies.”

The teams are now preparing their professional pitches for the Regional Finals, where they will face questions from industry professionals and sustainability experts. Successful teams from this round will go on to represent the North of England at the National Final in London later this year.

For more information about the Big Ideas Programme, visit

�ԹϺ��� hosted its annual Dance Showcase on Tuesday 24 March at CAST, Doncaster, bringing together over 200 students from 15 academies for an unforgettable evening of creativity, collaboration and outstanding performance.

This year’s showcase, themed “ONE – One Rhythm. One Movement. One Beat.”, captured the spirit of togetherness at the heart of dance across the family of schools. Bringing together both primary and secondary students, the event showcased not only exceptional performance quality but also the strong sense of connection and shared purpose that unites �ԹϺ��� schools.

The evening featured a vibrant range of performances, each demonstrating the talent, commitment and creativity of our young people. From powerful choreography to polished technical execution, the standard throughout was exceptional and reflected the continued growth of dance across �ԹϺ��� schools.

Just as striking as the performances themselves was the atmosphere throughout the event. Students championed one another with warmth and encouragement, while staff across the Trust worked together to create a truly memorable experience. It was a powerful reflection of the collaborative spirit that continues to shape dance across the family of schools.

Erin Braithwaite, trust strategic lead for arts enrichment & engagement, said:

“It was breathtaking to see so many students performing with such passion and commitment. Their confidence and technical skill were incredible. I loved seeing the way they supported each other through the rehearsals during the day and all pulled together to create a stunning show. I am very proud to see the way dance is growing within our Trust, especially when so many other schools have now stopped offering the subject.”

Jessica Chambers, EYFS teacher at �ԹϺ��� Primary Woodlands, added:

“The talent of the secondary students was truly inspiring, and our children haven’t stopped talking about it. They’re already saying they want to dance like that one day! For some of our children, it was their very first time stepping into a theatre, let alone being on a stage. We are so grateful to have been included.”

A school robotics club, the Robograngers, has won the 'Control Award' at the FIRST Tech Challenge Yorkshire regional competition. The team consisted of 10 students from �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy, ranging from Years 8 to 10.

The FIRST Tech Challenge is run by FIRST UK (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Operating under the motto "More Than Robots", the charity's mission is to make STEM less intimidating, more diverse and inclusive, and to empower young people to make informed choices about their future. Teams work alongside mentors to design, build, programme and operate robots capable of completing a series of tasks, both autonomously and under driver control, in a spirit of cooperation and good sportsmanship.

Each season brings an entirely new game, theme, and set of engineering challenges, which means teams must rethink and rebuild their approach from scratch every year. This year's challenge, 'DECODE', was inspired by archaeology, with robots having to collect and arrange artefacts on a game field to score points. Each match saw teams pairing up, joining forces in an "alliance" to compete against another pair.

The 'Control Award' recognises the team that demonstrates the most innovative and effective use of sensors and software to enhance their robot's performance and reliability. Winning the award reflects not just skill in building the robot, but in crafting the software that brings it to life.

Robograngers' project manager, Nathan S, said:

"It was a great experience to develop our STEM and communication skills. We learnt about our limits and were able to experience a true chance to learn."

David W added:

"We each found our place in the team."

The team meet weekly at an after-school club mentored by Leah Tomlinson, computer science teacher at �ԹϺ��� Grange Academy, and Tom Crouch, assistant director of digital services at �ԹϺ���.

Tom said:

"I'm delighted for the whole team. This year, they achieved their strongest result yet, and it showed in everything they did. The Control Award reflects what we saw throughout the day: a robot that performed reliably when it mattered, and a team that articulated their design to the judges brilliantly."

Work is now officially underway on the brand-new �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby school building. The groundbreaking ceremony, which took place on Monday, March 23, signals a new chapter for the school community, as the academy begins its transition from 1970s-era structures to a world-class educational facility.

The project is fully funded by the Department for Education (DfE) as part of the national School Rebuilding Programme (SRP), which invests in schools that require comprehensive renewal. The ceremony follows the granting of full planning permission by Ashfield District Council, giving the "green light" to replace the existing estate with a modern, energy-efficient structure.

Since joining the �ԹϺ��� Family of Schools in September 2022, �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby has seen rapid improvements, achieving an Ofsted ‘Good’ rating in May 2025 and being recognised in the top 1% nationally for school transformation. 

The new building is designed to reflect this academic excellence with facilities that include:

• Purpose-built classrooms for science, drama, and technology.

• Enhanced external facilities, including a brand-new all-weather pitch and multi-use games courts.

• Spacious social areas for recreation.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from �ԹϺ���, the DfE, and contractor Willmott Dixon.

Andy Scruby, lead principal at �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby, said:

“This is a historic milestone for �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby. Following our recent Ofsted rating and national recognition for transformation, this new building is a pivotal piece of the puzzle. It ensures our students and our wider community will have access to the very best facilities to support their learning, creativity, and physical well-being.”

Nick Heath, director at Willmott Dixon, added:

“Willmott Dixon has a strong track record of delivering sustainable schools across the country, including the UK's first Passivhaus Plus school for the London Borough of Sutton. Our extensive experience in the education sector makes us the ideal partner for this transformational project.

“Aligning the new �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby with the DfE's latest output specification means the building is fit for the future. Much of the social value we deliver throughout the construction phase will be focused on helping prepare local students for their own future careers. We've had great successes creating sustainable schools in recent years, and it's a privilege to continue doing so with �ԹϺ���.”

To ensure education continues without disruption, construction will follow a phased approach. A temporary teaching block will be utilised alongside existing sports facilities until the new main building is ready for use in the 2028/29 academic year. Once the new school is complete, the old buildings will be safely demolished to make way for the final external sports areas.

A spokesperson for the DfE said:

“The School Rebuilding Programme is delighted to support the future of the children of Kirkby-in-Ashfield, and the ambition of �ԹϺ��� Academy Kirkby, with this significant investment. We have a challenging road ahead, but with the support of our capable partners in Willmott Dixon and �ԹϺ���, we’re confident in delivering the right teaching environment to support the step-change in results that Mr Scruby and his team have laid down the foundations for.”

The DfE will invest almost £20 billion into the SRP through to 2034-35, ensuring children have safe, high-quality environments that meet the needs of the future.

�ԹϺ��� Primary Academy Woodlands has been officially named as a Lead School for the Department for Education’s (DfE) new Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) Reception Networks programme.

The initiative is a key pillar of the government’s landmark schools white paper, 'Every Child Achieving and Thriving', which aims for 75% of children to reach a "Good Level of Development" (GLD) by 2028. �ԹϺ��� Primary Academy Woodlands was appointed based on its history of strong and sustained reception outcomes.

As one of only five lead schools in the Yorkshire and the Humber region, the academy will spearhead a local network designed to drive excellence in early years education. The programme focuses on ensuring children transition into Key Stage 1 with the solid foundations necessary for long-term academic and personal success.

In its new role, the school will support schools across the region by:

• Leading discussions on high-impact teaching, learning, and leadership specifically for the Reception year.

• Opening its doors to allow peers to observe evidence-informed, high-quality practice in action.

• Providing access to proven resources, tools, and pedagogical approaches to strengthen early years provision.

• Holding regular online meetings to ensure collaboration remains flexible and accessible to all local educators.

The Reception Networks programme is designed to complement existing support structures, such as English and Maths hubs and local authority "Best Start in Life" strategies. It serves as a dedicated resource for schools to access reception-specific expertise.

Donna Burnett, Principal and �ԹϺ��� Primary Academy Woodlands, said:

“Reception is a critical milestone in development. This collaborative approach guarantees that all children benefit from expert early years support, driving the national ambition for every student to enter the classroom ready to succeed.”

Every primary school in the region is invited to engage with the network, whether to strengthen existing practice, build leadership confidence, or connect with colleagues facing similar challenges.

Schools interested in collaborating with �ԹϺ��� Primary Academy Woodlands can find more information using the button below or contact the programme directly at reception.beststartinlife@education.gov.uk.

To celebrate World Book Day, �ԹϺ��� Primary Academy Newstead Green delivered an ambitious range of community outreach activities and intergenerational storytelling that benefited the local community, from toddlers at local family hubs to retirees at parish coffee mornings.

Pupils spent the day demonstrating that reading is the ultimate tool for community cohesion, delivering a series of "reading roadshows" in which students shared the magic of books with different age groups across the village.

Year 1 students visited the Havercroft and Ryhill Community Learning Centre and participated in a moving session focused on "growing older." Volunteers read poetry to the children and shared inspiring stories about their working lives and the joys of retirement.

Year 3 and Year 6 pupils visited Ryhill Church and Victoria House, reading to elderly residents during their morning coffee hour. Meanwhile, Year 4 students prepared special poetry recitals for the Solid Rock Church luncheon club.

Some students took on mentorship roles; Year 2 visiting Kids World, Year 5 visiting Rhyill Primary School’s Foundation Stage to read their favourite stories and Year 6 visiting the Havercroft Family Hub. The hub was so impressed by the Year 6 students' engagement with the toddlers that the school has been invited to continue this partnership on a monthly basis.

To ensure the spirit of World Book Day lasts all year, the school officially unveiled the Newstead Book Shed. This mini-library, located in front of the school, serves as a "swap and shop" hub where community members can donate pre-loved books or borrow something new, promoting a local culture of literacy.

Inside the school gates, the day was packed with high-energy activities, including:

• Quidditch tournaments: Mr Pickles brought the Wizarding World to life in PE, where students read extracts from Harry Potter before mounting their "brooms" for a full-scale Quidditch competition.

• Stop, drop, and read: At various points throughout the day, a school-wide bell signalled an immediate pause in all activities. Whether in the middle of maths or lunchtime, everyone, staff and students alike, stopped to enjoy ten minutes of their favourite book.

• The Great Teacher Swap: In a fun twist, teachers swapped classrooms for the afternoon, giving pupils the chance to hear stories read by different faces from across the school.

• The costume parade: The day began with a whole-school assembly, where every class took to the "runway" to showcase their World Book Day costumes in a vibrant parade.

Lindsey Corbett, Principal at �ԹϺ��� Primary Academy Newstead Green, said: “World Book Day wasn't just about dressing up as characters, it was about showing our children that they are part of a wider community. Reading together is the thread that connects us all, regardless of age.”