We are delighted to announce that Smestow Academy has been shortlisted for the Outstanding Progress - Secondary School Award at the prestigious Education Business Awards 2026.

The Education Business Awards recognise the achievements of schools, colleges and universities across the UK that go above and beyond to improve education and enhance the lives of the current and future workforce. Since 2009, the awards have celebrated excellence across more than twenty categories, including Outstanding Progress and Leadership, SEN Best Practice and Provision, ICT Innovation, Procurement, Security, Environmental Practice, Building and Catering.

Smestow Academy was selected by the awards’ research team following careful consideration of a range of factors, including recent achievements, Ofsted reports, positive news coverage, and contributions to the education sector.

Being shortlisted for the Outstanding Progress at Secondary Years Award is a fantastic recognition of the continued commitment of our staff, pupils and wider school community in driving improvement and achieving excellent outcomes.

The awards ceremony will take place on 26 March 2026 at Old Billingsgate in London, where schools from across the country will gather to celebrate educational excellence. This year’s awards will be presented by Matthew Burton, inspirational headteacher and star of Channel 4’s multi-award-winning documentary series Educating Yorkshire.

We are incredibly proud of this recognition and look forward to representing Smestow Academy at the awards ceremony.