A full list of West Midlands teachers and schools shortlisted for the Tes Schools Awards 2026 has been revealed, with the awards night set to be hosted by TV comedian Katherine Ryan. The most inspiring educators and institutions from the region will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions at a prestigious ceremony.
Tes Schools Awards 2026: Celebrating Excellence
Since 2009, the Tes Schools Awards have brought together state and independent schools from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in one inclusive national event, recognising excellence across the education sector. Returning for 2026, a shortlist of individuals and teams making a meaningful impact on pupils, staff and their wider communities across the UK has been unveiled, with plenty of nominees based across the West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire across 11 of the 23 categories.
Two new categories have been introduced for 2026: Teacher Development of the Year and Pupil Enrichment School of the Year. These were judged by a panel of industry experts.
CEO Comments on Shortlist
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.”
Full Shortlist for the West Midlands Region
Teaching Assistant of the Year
- Rob Howell – Oswestry School, Shropshire
Primary School of the Year
- Ark Tindal Primary Academy, West Midlands
Inclusive School of the Year
- University of Birmingham School, West Midlands
Pupil Mental Health Initiative of the Year
- Thorns Collegiate Academy, West Midlands
Headteacher of the Year (Independent)
- Charles Fillingham – Solihull School, West Midlands
Headteacher of the Year (State)
- David Karim – E-ACT North Birmingham Academy, West Midlands
Inclusive Trust of the Year
- Prince Albert Community Trust, West Midlands
Secondary School of the Year
- Heartlands Academy, Birmingham
- Lyndon School, West Midlands
- Q3 Academy Langley, West Midlands
- Ridgeway Secondary School, West Midlands
Trust of the Year — 9 Schools or Fewer
- Matrix Academy Trust, West Midlands
Staff Wellbeing School of the Year
- Q3 Academy Langley, West Midlands
- St Peter's Catholic School, West Midlands
EYFS Setting of the Year
- Ruckleigh School, West Midlands
Teacher Development Initiative of the Year
- Shaw Education Trust, Staffordshire
- Shrewsbury School, Shropshire
Winners Announced in June
Winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London on June 19. To see the full shortlist for the UK, visit the Tes website.
