Does your child go to the best school in the UK? Serving one of the most disadvantaged communities in the country in Nechells, Heartlands Academy may seem like an unlikely candidate, but with 74% of pupils eligible for extra funding, its students are performing above national averages.
The Tes Schools Awards are all about recognising the schools and teachers whose work transforms pupils and sets new standards across education. Heartlands Academy won ‘Secondary School of the Year’ at the Tes Schools Awards 2026 for consistently delivering strong GCSE results for its disadvantaged pupils.
The 2026 awards were presented at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Friday, June 19, with comedian Katherine Ryan hosting the ceremony. Winners were selected by a panel of experienced school leaders and education experts across 23 categories spanning leadership, teaching, wellbeing, pupil outcomes and innovation.
“The Tes Schools Awards recognise the schools and teachers whose work is changing lives every day. This year’s winners represent the very best of UK education,” said Rod Williams, CEO of Tes. “They are raising standards, supporting their communities and finding new ways to help every pupil succeed.”
What sets Heartlands Academy apart?
Areas of excellence included attendance, calling it “sector-leading”, alongside improvements in behaviour, very low suspension rates, and no permanent exclusions in the last six years. Pupil leadership is also embedded across the school, while staff development is also a key strength.
Judge Christine Gilbert said: “This is an exceptional school with the highest expectations for all its students and with the expertise, determination and confidence to make a reality of its mission to empower dreams. They are worthy winners of Secondary School of the Year.”
