WINNING STREAK
Judging Chair Helen
Wright reflects on the extraordinary achievements of the finalists and winners and an uplifting prize-giving night
What a marvellous evening it was at this year’s Independent Schools of the Year Awards! This year was, as it always has been, a celebration not only of outstanding schools and exceptional students, but of a sector whose enduring commitment to education shines through in everything it does. The room was alive with energy and pride; there was laughter, applause, and a palpable sense of shared purpose. Each nalist and winner represented something deeply inspiring about the independentschool world, not least its creativity, its compassion, and its conviction that education can and should make a di erence.
It’s always a privilege to chair the judging panel for these awards. Each year, we receive an extraordinary range of submissions that reveal the heartbeat of the sector – schools large and small, ancient and modern, rural and urban, all united by the same unshakeable belief in the transformative power of education. The judging process itself is hard work, as the panel examines evidence, debates passionately, and ultimately reaches a consensus on what excellence looks like in all its many forms; collaborative and rigorous, we strive to ensure that our process re ects some of the best qualities of the sector.
This year’s entries came at a time when the sector faces considerable external challenges, yet what emerged most clearly was its resilience and determination. Far from retreating into selfprotection, independent schools continue to look outward – to their local communities, to their partner schools, and to the wider
Time and again, the winning entries demonstrated a profound understanding of how to nurture young people intellectually, emotionally and ethically
world. Whether through bursary programmes, sustainability initiatives, or powerful educational partnerships, they’re showing that independent education at its best is deeply interdependent. It seeks not to stand apart, but to reach out and lift others up.
Throughout the evening, we were reminded that the true measure of a school lies in the experience of its students. Time and again, the winning entries demonstrated a profound understanding of how to nurture young people intellectually, emotionally, and ethically. From Holmewood House’s ourishing orchestras to Mill Hill’s research-based approach to physical literacy; from Oakham’s innovative Connected Curriculum to the remarkable AI tutoring initiative at Westbourne School … these examples, and many, many others, reveal schools that are creative in spirit and generous in intent.
Our new regional awards re ected the diversity and vitality of independent education across the UK, while the international categories showcased the global reach of British schooling.
Brighton College Al Ain’s focus on sustainability and UWC Atlantic’s thoughtful support for its international students
Lockers Park was a nalist in the Boys’ School of the Year award category
Our new regional awards reflected the diversity and vitality of independent education across the UK, while the international categories showcased the global reach of British schooling
reminded us that the reach of the UK independent sector is far and wide.
There were many moments of pride – not least when we celebrated the Rising Star of the Year, Ahana Kotibhaskar of Wycombe Abbey, whose advocacy for menstrual education and ght against period poverty exemplify the courage and compassion we hope to see in all our young people. She, like so many of our students, gives us reason to be profoundly hopeful about the future.
And then, of course, came the announcement of our overall winner: Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools. In many ways, this choice encapsulated the essence of what these awards stand for. The judges were unanimous in recognising the school’s deep-rooted commitment to partnership, its unwavering sense of purpose, and its ability to stay true to its vision despite the pressures of the moment. Through close collaboration with local state-funded schools, Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools have created a model of mutual enrichment – one that raises aspirations, improves attendance, and strengthens community bonds. It is a living example of how education can be both excellent and inclusive, ambitious and altruistic.
As I said on the night, to be named Independent School of the Year is to represent not just one school’s success, but the spirit of a whole sector: con dent, compassionate, and forward-looking. Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools have shown that independent schools can lead with humility and humanity, impacting not only their own pupils, but the wider educational landscape.
So, to every school that entered, every teacher who inspires, and every student who strives: well done, and thank you! You continue to prove, year after year, that independent schools aren’t merely places of learning, but communities of purpose, committed to shaping the kind of world we all want to live in.
Ibstock Place School was recognised as a runner-up in the Best Use of Educational Technology category
Hurlingham School earned a place on the Pre-Prep of the Year award’s nalist list
2025’S PANEL OF JUDGES Meet this year’s experts
DAVID MONCRIEFF, Vice-Chair is a heritage publishing specialist. He was previously Director of Marketing at Mayfield School and Director of Marketing Services at the British Tourist Authority.
CHARLOTTE AVERY
is Principal of St Cuthbert’s College, New Zealand and former Headmistress of St Mary’s School, Cambridge.
DURELL BARNES is Chair of ISEB and Head of Governance and Compliance at RSAcademics.
COLIN BELL is CEO of COBIS, an organisation which helps teachers, governors and support sta at British international schools.
LOUISE BENNETT is CEO of the Institute of Development Professionals in Education (IDPE).
TORY GILLINGHAM was Managing Director of Admissions, Marketing & Communications in Independent Schools (AMCIS).
GAVIN HORGAN took over as Millfield Headmaster after delivering Worksop College’s academic turnaround.
IRFAN LATIF is Head of the Royal Hospital School and is also a co-founder of the Inclusion and Diversity group for the Independent Schools Council.
JIM MASSEY is chair of governors at Welleslsey Prep School. Prior to this he has led prep schools and has worked across the independent sector.
DAMIAN MCBEATH is Principal of The John Wallis Church of England Academy and a governor of Benenden School, Kent.
HUGO MIDDLEMAS is Director of Development at Christ’s Hospital School.
JAMES PRIORY joined Tonbridge School as Headmaster in 2018.
JULIE ROBINSON is CEO of the Independent Schools Council (ISC).
MELVYN ROFFE is Head of Monmouth School and is a former HMC Chair.
PHILIPPA SCUDDS is a chartered marketer with more than 25 years’ experience in the education sector.
DONNA STEVENS is CEO of the Girls’ Schools Association, which represents 146 girls’ schools.
ABRA STOAKLEY is Head of School at Grange School Lagos, Nigeria.
DAVID WALKER is Executive Director of the Boarding Schools’ Association.
IN BRIEF
STUDENT SUCCESSES + EXTRACURRICULAR EXCELLENCE + INSPIRING INITIATIVES + NEW HEAD TEACHERS
Gordonstoun, Moray
Hit the high
Gordonstoun’s renowned pipe band has taken part for the first time in the oldest and longest civic parade in the world, dating back more than 800 years. The pipers and drummers, a favourite of HM King Charles, featured alongside many of the UK’s top military bands in the Lady Mayor’s Show in November.
The Gordonstoun Pipe Band was the only Scottish school, and non-military band, selected to take part in the famous three-mile procession. They played a varied set, including On the Road to Passchendaele, to coincide with Remembrance Day. Band members as young as 12 years old joined more than 7,000 other musicians and performers, as they made their way through the streets of London past iconic landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral, the Royal Courts of Justice and Fleet Street before finishing at Mansion House. The annual Lord Mayor’s
Show first started in the 15th century to parade the newly appointed Mayor of London to swear allegiance to the crown. This year was the first time the event was called the Lady Mayor’s Show, in honour of new Mayor, Dame Susan Langley DBE.
The privilege of representing Gordonstoun on the world stage came as the pipe band celebrates its 70th anniversary. Gordonstoun was one of only two schools, and three pipe bands, featured in the parade. The band regularly plays at the annual Braemar Gatherings attended by the King and have also shared the stage with folk-rock superstars Skerryvore and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Gordonstoun Pipe Band joined in London’s Lady Mayor’s Show’s three-mile procession
Mayor Dame
Susan Langley DBE
Over the airwaves
Bryanston School, Dorset
Old Bryanstonian Dr Clare Bailey Mosley stepped back on to the school’s campus in November for a day of nostalgia, practical insight, and a call to put family mealtimes back at the heart of daily life. Between meetings with the pastoral care team, the catering department, pupil leaders from the Food Committee, and the heads of school, including the Wellbeing Prefect, she toured her former boarding house, Greenleaves, and sat down in the BryRadio studio for an interview with Mr Berton. Reflecting on her school days, Dr Mosley was candid about the challenges she had faced. “I have ADHD, so I found learning quite a challenge at Bryanston until my tutor taught me how to learn better,” she said. “He suggested active learning to stop me switching off and staring out of the window.” That early nudge toward finding a learning style that worked for her proved foundational.
Doors open
Wetherby Pembridge, west London
The new Olympia independent senior school opened in September, with its first cohort from across years seven to nine. Built on the excellent reputations of the Wetherby Schools and Pembridge Hall, Wetherby Pembridge is poised to continue this legacy of tradition, academic rigour and the latest educational innovations.
As the newest member of the Inspired Education Group, it offers a holistic education in a premium purpose-built setting with world-leading facilities.
Bright Sparkes
Beaudesert Park School, Gloucestershire
Paddington star Hugh Bonneville delighted pupils in October during a special school visit, as part of the launch of his new children’s book, Rory Sparkes and the Elephant in the Room. Bonneville is working with local book store, The YellowLighted Bookshop, and visiting a number of primary schools across Gloucestershire. The book tells the story of Rory and best friend Guy, as they try to earn money to buy a model sailboat that they hope to sail to South America.
BEST OF THE REST
l STARTING EARLY
Kimbolton School, Cambridgeshire
The all-through school is set to open a pre-school in January 2026. A nurturing space supported by dedicated staff, it will be housed next to the school’s reception classrooms to help ease the youngsters’ gradual transition into school life.
l STRINGS ATTACHED
St Gerard’s School, County Down
After a string of outstanding achievements, 14-year-old student Seren Harris has her sights set firmly on 2026’s All-Ireland Fleadh. At this year’s event, the All-Britain champion placed second and third in the Fiddle Slow Airs and Fiddle Dance Tunes categories respectively.
l BOYS ALLOWED
Abbot’s Hill School, Hertfordshire
The day school will extend co-ed provision into the senior school, with boys being admitted into year seven from September 2026. The decision follows the recent introduction of boys into the prep, as well as rising demand from families interested in Abbot’s Hill’s culture, value and ethos.
l NEW ENDEAVOUR
Minerva Virtual Academy, International
The fast-growing school has launched its own Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, meaning it’ll be among the first online schools to be licensed to run the extracurricular initiative. It will cover all four elements, including the expedition.
l
ALL PREPPED
Cranleigh School, Surrey
This term, Cranleigh Prep opened its doors to fiveand six-year-old pupils for the first time. The new preprep offering is part of an ongoing plan to widen access, with nursery and reception classes set to be added in September 2026. s
The great thing about school was that you could discover what you were good at and spend time on it. The music department was a particularly huge part of my life
least the award-winning Tom Hiddleston, who formally opened the school’s new arts centre last year and is soon to reappear in the second series of BBC crime thriller The Night Manager. Those who appeared alongside him in the first series include fellow Dragon alumni Hugh Laurie and Tom Hollander, who join Harry Potter actress Emma Watson (and others) on the school’s wall of fame.
Diverse opportunities
In its many guises, the performing arts in private schools is awakening a vast range of interests in pupils.
For Orlando Squires, a passion for performing has carved out a journey that began at King’s Ely School near Cambridge and culminated in a portfolio career as an actor, fight performer and fight choreographer.
Along the way, Orlando has starred in the BAFTA nominated film Forced Out, featured in immersive stunt shows, been trained in more than 30 weapon systems for stage and screen performance, and even inspired drama and theatre students at King’s Ely’s with an unarmed stage combat workshop.
“Drama and dance are important parts of school life for many
LEFT: Composer
Roxanna Panufnik credits her time at Bedales for helping her discover her musical talent
RIGHT:
Chetham’s Symphony Orchestra takes a bow after a packed-out concert at Stoller Hall
LEFT:
Dragon School alumnus Tom Hiddleston will return in The Night Manager FAR LEFT: Bradfield College runs a practical film course for budding directors
students,” says Jane Thomas, Head of King’s Ely Senior, of the inspiration behind career choices like Orlando’s. “Many pupils are now working as professional actors, designers, and technicians.” Similarly inspiring is the film programme offered by Bradfield College in Berkshire. For more than 20 years, this has given pupils a chance to analyse films, develop filmmaking skills, and create award-winning content. And among its many beneficiaries is Marta Malecka.
An emerging film director who now holds one of five coveted places on Prague Film School’s directing programme, Marta is quick to credit her school. She says: “Film at Bradfield meant freedom to explore, to learn, to grow. Bradfield was the start of my journey. It provided me with the tools I use every day.”
Prolific creativity
Roxanna Panufnik, a former pupil of Bedales in Hampshire, is also positive about the impact of her school days. “The great thing about school was that you could discover what you were good at and spend time on it,” she says. “The music department was a particularly huge part of my life.”
Today, Roxanna is one of Britain’s most popular composers, with her works for opera, ballet, lm, television and more performed all over the world. She was even commissioned to compose a piece for King Charles III’s coronation in 2023.
Oboist Mana Shibata, who has performed with leading orchestras like the BBC Philharmonic and London Symphony, echoes Roxanna’s sentiments. She says of her time at Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester, “I just loved being immersed in music every day and I still can’t believe the range of repertoire that we got to perform.”
Like others who have made the most of their schools’ performing arts provision, Mana is mindful of her good fortune. And, as lead woodwind tutor for the National Youth Orchestra’s Inspire Programme, she now helps propel the next generation into a life of music.
“I feel so lucky to have met so many amazing people and to have been given the opportunity to challenge myself as an oboist from an early age,” concludes Mana. “If I hadn’t moved from the other side of the world (Japan) to come to Chets, I don’t know what my life would have been like.”
DEDICATED TO DRAMA
Eton College, which counts actors Eddie Redmayne, Damian Lewis and Dominic West among its alumni, now o ers its Orwell scholars an MCM Drama award.
“Drama was the most significant factor in my decision to come to Eton,” says Anthony, a year 13 pupil and current Orwell scholar, who won the award due to his desire to immerse himself in drama at the school.
“The sheer professionalism is unmatched and something that’s only rivalled by the West End and Broadway,” Anthony explains. “It makes sense that many boys who do choose this career are so successful because they’ve been practising at an industry standard for five years before they even get there.”
In
SOCIAL MOBILITY
light of fees VAT, independent schools are striving to close financial gaps – this category rewards these benevolent efforts
during turbulent economic times like these, giving back is part of the independent-school experience. Many nominees are widening bursary access. However, Bolton School, which has built on its tradition of providing an excellent education for every child of ability, irrespective of financial means, was the ultimate winner.
Each year, the school spends around £3.5m on means-tested bursary assistance and hardship grants, supporting one in five senior-school pupils, with many receiving a fully-funded place. Through targeted outreach and its partnerships with OnSide Youth Zones and The Bursary Foundation, Bolton School identifies and nurtures potential candidates, encouraging applications from low-income families. Once bursary students join the school, they receive dedicated pastoral provision, which is followed by a young alumni mentoring programme to support their continued success. Its ambition doesn’t end there, however, as Bolton School’s vision for the future is to be the school any talented child can attend, regardless of financial background. For the past decade, it has been dedicated to growing its bursary scheme, with a target of one in three students being financially supported by 2030. This summer, the Open Futures Bursary campaign was launched to help reach this aim, which would change the lives of up to 250 more children.
The
winner of this category has a well-established social mobility mission which is embedded in the school’s development priorities. It’s committed to improving access to independent schooling
LEFT: Bolton School aims to financially support 250 more students by 2030 BELOW: Finalist Wellington College
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENT
From exceptional facilities to inclusive programmes, this category highlights schools prioritising participation for all ability levels
INSTILLING A HEALTHY, LIFELONG APPROACH TO FITNESS is the aim of all schools, and nominees demonstrated a wealth of facilities and initiatives that promote an active lifestyle for all students. However, winner Mill Hill School’s evidence-informed approach distinguishes its provision among the finalists.
Last year, the north London school released a pioneering report which confirms a strong correlation between increased sports participation and improved academic outcomes – reflected in GCSE and A-level results – attendance, effort levels and wellbeing.
As a result of the findings, Mill Hill’s Fit for Life and Fit for Performance programmes now provide tailored experiences for pupils across a spectrum of ability and ambition.
These initiatives are supported by a dedicated performance team, including a Head of Athletic Development, in-house sports therapist, psychologist, nutritionist and sports analyst, ensuring that all students, whether seeking wellbeing or a sporting career, benefit from the same high level of care and guidance.
It also supports communities eager to replicate this approach, with more than 90 schools across the globe signing up for a webinar endorsed by PADSIS – the Professional Association of Directors of Sport in Independent Schools.
The winner’s powerful and coherent research-based programme creates opportunities for participation with powerful, values-driven outcomes benefiting all students
LEFT: Mill Hill students benefit from the guidance of a team of sports performance specialists BELOW: Finalist George Watson’s College
OH, WHAT A NIGHT!
In October at the Law Society in London, the leading lights of British education gathered to honour the winners of the eighth annual Independent Schools of the Year awards
More than 200 guests from schools across the country congregated at the Law Society in London for the Independent Schools of the Year 2025 awards ceremony in October, hosted by this magazine’s sister title, Independent School Parent and sponsored by Schoolblazer.
In just over eight years, the awards have become firmly established as the independent-school education sector’s leading awards campaign, securing category winners the kind of national and international recognition that goes hand in hand with a surge of admissions enquiries.
With 25 categories, excluding the overall winner’s prize (with a joint win in one category, 27 awards were handed out on the night), the focus of the 2025 awards was, as always, to demonstrate the benefits of an independent-school education –as well as showcase the life-affirming, future-enhancing student experience the young people in our schools receive.
ABOVE: Judge Julie Robinson and the panel’s Chair Dr Helen Wright catch up at the awards ceremony
RIGHT: School of the Year and Outstanding Educational Partnerships award winners
Haberdashers’ Elstree Schools pose with their two awards alongside Schoolblazer’s MD, Louise Crofts