Click on the category name below to find out more about who has been shortlisted.
The winners will be announced at the prestigious awards ceremony on Friday 14 November.
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- Most Impactful Communications Award
Sponsored by CPMM Media Group
Maghull High School
Maghull High School uses communication with all stakeholders both as a form of marketing, and to keep all of its school community up-to-date with the latest news and events. The school’s excellent communication has cemented strong relationships amongst its local community and was highlighted as a real strength of the school’s following parental feedback.
High quality communication and collaboration with all stakeholders has ensured the success of the school’s new behaviour and rewards strategy, and created a positive culture change across the school.
St Edward’s College
Communication is a vital part of what makes the St Edward’s College community so special. Over the past year, it has implemented a strategy to reach, inform, and inspire all stakeholders using social media, print media, and college community events.
Through social media platforms it has increased engagement by showcasing pupil achievements, events, and student stories such as the ‘Humans of St Edward’s’ series.
Communication is more than information-sharing at St Edward’s College; it helps builds community, celebrates shared values, and ensures every pupil and parent feels seen, heard, and valued.
St John Bosco Arts College
St John Bosco Arts College has redefined its communications. Under a new communications manager, the school has launched a dynamic, multi-channel strategy that blends digital innovation, student-led content, and proactive outreach.
Something that sets St John Bosco apart is its Student Editorial Team. The committed, 30-strong team creates authentic, student-led content, that equips them with skills and confidence for life.
Fundamentally, the new strategy is built in partnership with those it serves; the students.
- Outstanding Commitment to the Environment & Sustainability
Hope Academy
Hope Academy has been on a journey to put the environment at the forefront of its community.
Recognising that now, more than ever, our local, national and global homes need protection, the academy made a commitment to change.
Its students asked for environmental leadership, so it created a new Eco Leadership Team in school. These leaders have been instrumental in taking Hope Academy on a monumental journey, in a very short space of time, which has included the removal of single use plastic and hosting the Liverpool Archdiocese mock COP30 conference.
Prospect House Specialist Support Primary School
Prospect House Specialist Support Primary School is committed to fostering a culture of environmental sustainability and empowering its pupils to become active stewards of the planet.
As a school community, they have recognised the urgent need to address the global climate crisis and have implemented a range of innovative initiatives to reduce carbon footprint, promote biodiversity, and inspire pupils to take meaningful action.
The school’s approach to sustainability is to involve its pupils.
The Academy of St Nicholas
Driven by the students, this year has seen The Academy of St Nicholas become a school that has prioritised its environmental impact with a focus on sustainability.
This year students and staff have initiated various projects with one end goal – for The Academy of St Nicholas to be a plastic free school.
Students now use their own refillable bottles every day and plastic bottles and cans are no longer available from school; in fact, they are banned from the school site.
- Careers & Enterprise Award
Sponsored by Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Careers Hub
Birkenhead Sixth Form College
BSFC’s mission to transform lives extends beyond academic achievement – it empowers students to thrive in the world of work through an ambitious, sector-leading careers and enterprise programme.
Guided by three qualified advisers, its QCS-accredited careers provision is built around the Gatsby Benchmarks, enhanced with digital tools to support informed decision-making from day one.
Careers education is embedded across the curriculum.
Kew Woods Primary School
Kew Woods Primary School has launched a pioneering ‘Careers and Aspirations Framework’ to embed meaningful careers education from reception to Year 6.
A baseline survey revealed that only 28 per cent of pupils felt confident about their future careers, prompting the development of a curriculum aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks and Skills Builder framework.
The initiative focuses on six core aims and impact has been significant.
St Francis Xavier’s Catholic College
Careers at SFX has been identified as a secure area of strength for the school.
The 2024/25 academic year was especially significant for careers due to the range of activities held, prioritising at risk of NEET pupils and attaining the Quality in Careers Standard, with impressive feedback from assessors.
High attainment at Gatsby Benchmarks remains in place, whilst the school always maintains integrity when reflecting on achievement.
Wirral Grammar School for Boys
Wirral Grammar School for Boys offers an aspirational and ambitious careers education programme that empowers students to confidently navigate life beyond school.
The carefully structured and progressive curriculum ensures that each student is well-equipped with the skills and mindset to be successful in their chosen career path.
The school offers a range of activities to encourage students to step outside their comfort zones and explore new experiences.
- Outstanding SEND Provision in Mainstream School
Sponsored by SENDSCOPE
Marton Primary Academy & Nursery
Marton Primary Academy & Nursery offers a high-quality provision delivered by all adults, demonstrating its inclusive ethos. The school takes a personalised approach that tailors its provision to meet individual needs.
Within the main school building, Marton Primary Academy & Nursery provides a specialised setting to create a low stimulus environment. It has also established a dedicated SEND Unit for children with autism that is fully integrated within its mainstream establishment and includes four specialist classes.
Our Lady & St Swithin’s Catholic Primary School
Our Lady & St Swithin’s Catholic Primary School has an innovative and inclusive ARC Enhanced Resource Provision.
Over the past five years, the ARC has grown from a single-room unit into a three-room hub supporting 25 children with diverse needs.
The provision is rooted in a holistic, child-centred approach, led by a skilled and passionate team who ensure every pupil receives tailored, high-quality education.
Every aspect of the provision is designed to empower, engage, and inspire.
Whitefield Primary School
Whitefield Primary School holds the prestigious Inclusion Quality Mark. Its approach is deeply embedded in trauma-sensitive practice, recognising that all behaviour is a form of communication and understanding the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences on a child’s development.
Over the last few years, the school has been involved in a “reimagining classrooms project” working with
TPC Therapy to redesign its classroom environments to be a calm, threat-free, and safe space, supporting children to self-regulate.
- School Library of the Year
Sponsored by Portakabin
Our Lady of Compassion RC Primary School
Our Lady’s has made it a top priority to encourage regular reading habits and nurture a love for reading, placing it at the forefront of its school improvement plan.
In 2024/25, the staff at Our Lady’s worked exceptionally hard to turn an empty, unused space into a sensational new library, aiming to not only broaden children’s understanding of the world, but provide them with the confidence to explore the limitless opportunities that lie ahead.
St Hilda’s CE High School
Much more than a room of books, St Hilda’s library is a centre of knowledge and creativity, and is the community at the very heart of the school.
Led by a skilled and passionate librarian who goes above and beyond to foster a love of reading in every student, staff member and parent, and a team of enthusiastic, award-winning pupil librarians, who show remarkable enthusiasm for the library’s mission.
Its library is a place where everyone can find themselves in a book, where stories are shared, lasting friendships are formed and inspiration is found.
St Mary’s Catholic Junior Academy
The library at St Mary’s Catholic Junior Academy, officially opened by the Mayor of St Helens in January 2025, is a place of inspiration, learning, and community.
It is a dynamic, nurturing space that cultivates a lifelong love of reading, supports academic achievement, and fosters a sense of belonging among pupils, staff, and families.
The library has grown from a room to store books, to a space for its whole community to be stimulated, enthused and educated with education and wellbeing at the centre.
- Outstanding Commitment to STEM
Sponsored by All About Futures
The Mosslands School
The Mosslands School offers an exceptional curriculum grounded in real-world relevance, inclusion, and aspiration. The school delivers robust and effective teaching that empowers students to envision a future in science.
Through partnerships with universities and employers, The Mosslands School connects students with professionals across STEM fields. It hosts flagship events such as the community science fair, alongside enrichment opportunities like robotics club. This inclusive approach has fostered a thriving STEM culture and improved academic outcomes.
Whitefield Primary School
Whitefield Primary School demonstrate an innovative and inclusive use of educational technology. Serving a diverse community in Liverpool, the school embeds digital tools across the curriculum to enhance learning, reduce barriers, and foster independence.
Through its “PedTech” approach, Whitefield integrate devices and AI tools, supporting all learners. With national partnerships, pupil-led initiatives, and flagship events, the school cultivates digital literacy and prepares pupils for a rapidly evolving world.
Wright Robinson College
Wright Robinson College blends academic excellence with real-world application. STEM is embedded across school life, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and resilience among all students.
Through initiatives like British Science Week, the Bronze CREST Award, robotics, and the STEM leaders programme, students explore global challenges and develop leadership, problem-solving, and digital skills. With a strong focus on inclusion and aspiration, Wright Robinson College equips students to thrive in a technology-driven world and contribute meaningfully to society.
- Outstanding Arts in Primary School
Banks Road Primary School
Banks Road Primary School has a bold, inclusive approach to creativity, where the arts are embedded across the curriculum and celebrated throughout the school community.
From Shakespeare sculptures to performances at the Liverpool Philharmonic, every child is empowered to express themselves and take pride in their work.
With strong partnerships and a focus on pupil voice, Banks Road inspires every child to express themselves, build confidence, and shine.
Our Lady of Compassion RC Primary School
Our Lady of Compassion places the arts at the heart of school life, using creativity to foster togetherness, love, and community.
The school contributed to the Paul Curtis angel artwork and led a community recycling initiative that raised environmental awareness through sculpture.
Music is a particular strength at this school, garnering the attention of the BBC for its Eurovision songwriting project which highlighted how art can build confidence and support mental health.
St Peter’s C.E. Primary School
St Peter’s C.E. Primary School takes a bold, embedded approach to creativity and inclusion.
In one of Bolton’s most deprived areas, the arts are a lifeline – not an add-on. Every child leaves with an Arts Award, now extended to Explorer level, and the school proudly holds Artsmark Gold and Trinity Champion Centre status.
From full-scale Year 6 productions and Proms in the Park to partnerships with theatres, museums, and music organisations, pupils experience the arts as a lived and joyful reality.
- Outstanding Arts in Secondary School
Meols Cop High School
Meols Cop High School champions creativity as a cornerstone of student development.
Through inclusive projects, student-led performances, and strong community partnerships, Meols Cop students explore artistic expression while developing leadership, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
Initiatives like the Dance Festival, Shakespeare reimaginings, and cross-curricular arts integration empower learners to take ownership and connect meaningfully with the wider world.
Ormskirk School
From sold-out student-led concerts to inclusive musicals involving hundreds of pupils, the arts at Ormskirk School are a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and belonging.
This year’s production of The Addams Family brought together 350 students across disciplines, culminating in a transformative trip to London and recognition at the National School Theatre Awards.
With thriving choirs, bands, and music clubs, and a student house band supporting the Lancashire Sings initiative, Ormskirk students share their talents both in school and across the wider community.
St John Bosco Arts College
St John Bosco Arts College places creativity and inclusion at the core of its curriculum, empowering students to express themselves, lead with confidence, and thrive through the performing arts.
From interdisciplinary productions like Moana to gospel choirs, DJ workshops, and national theatre collaborations, the arts at St John Bosco are a vibrant celebration of talent, teamwork, and transformation.
Through various initiatives, students develop leadership, resilience, and cultural capital.
West Kirby Grammar School
West Kirby Grammar School offers a thriving ecosystem of creativity.
From original scores and student-directed productions like Arabian, students take ownership of every element.
The arts extend beyond the classroom and into the community, with public gallery exhibitions, partnerships with West End professionals, and performances reaching over 1,000 primary pupils.
Through music, drama, dance, and visual arts, students grow as artists, collaborators, and changemakers.
- Lord Frank Field Community Partnership Award
Sponsored by Frank Field Education Trust
Accrington St Christopher’s CE High School
Accrington St Christopher’s CE High School shows long-term commitment to community engagement and sustainability.
Through its student-led Eco-Group, leadership of the UK’s largest student-led Sustainability Learning Conference, and partnerships with charities and organisations, the school has created impactful, inclusive initiatives that benefit pupils and the wider community.
This school exemplifies how education can be a force for social good and environmental stewardship.
Burnley High School
Burnley High School has built long-term partnerships with local organisations such as Ashmeade Residential Home, Pendleside Hospice, and Burnley Football Club, delivering projects that support intergenerational connection, cultural access, and charitable giving.
From food drives and environmental campaigns to mentoring and inclusive events, Burnley High ensures that disadvantaged students and families are supported and empowered.
Maghull High School
Maghull High School has led impactful initiatives addressing social issues like anti-social behaviour and youth violence through its partnerships with organisations such as Social Signature, Merseyside Police, local councils, and major football clubs.
As a key member of MADCOS and Team Around the School, Maghull High has championed charitable efforts and civic engagement, including the creation of the first-ever Maghull Town Council Youth Council. This demonstrates a deep-rooted culture of responsibility, leadership, and service to the wider community.
Tottington High School
From intergenerational projects in care homes and VE Day celebrations to ecological work in Whitehead Gardens and support for local charities, students at Tottington High School are actively involved in enriching their community.
The school’s on-site farm fosters sustainability and community engagement, while partnerships with organisations like the Red Cross, HSBC, and Speakers for Schools enhance students’ life skills and aspirations.
This school empowers its young people to make a lasting, positive impact on the world around them.
- Mental Health & Wellbeing Award
Chantlers Primary School
Chantlers Primary School cultivates a culture of care.
From forest trails to pond-dipping platforms, pupils explore nature not just as learners, but as nurturers of their own wellbeing.
Through yoga, peer massage, and reflective practices in the Outdoor Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub, students and staff find space to breathe, connect, and grow.
Partnerships with families, NHS services, and mental health charities extend this ethos beyond the school gates, creating a community of compassion.
Locking Stumps Community High School
From reception to Year 6, pupils practise gratitude, lead mindfulness activities, and champion mental health as Happiness Heroes.
Through the myHappymind programme, children learn to understand themselves, connect with others, and grow with confidence. Parents join the journey too, with dedicated resources and shared language that bridges school and home.
This school is a space where mental health is not just supported, but celebrated.
Standish Community High School
Wellbeing is woven into the ‘Standish Way’, celebrated through kindness, and championed by a dedicated team of staff, students, and leaders.
Safe spaces like The Bridge and The Base offer tailored support, while wellbeing ambassadors and inclusive awards ensure every student feels seen.
Staff wellbeing is just as central. From mindfulness therapy to coffee vans and car washes, this school builds a culture where care is practical, thoughtful, and shared.
- Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Primary School
Sponsored by Liverpool School Sports Partnership
Cherry Tree Primary School
Sport is stitched into the fabric of Cherry Tree Primary School, not just as a subject, but as a driver of wellbeing, inclusion, and aspiration.
From fencing to forest school and horse riding to half-time dance performances, the school’s offer is as diverse as it is inclusive. With 88 per cent of pupils accessing extracurricular sport or competition, and 80 per cent of pupils with SEND participating too, every child is given the chance to thrive.
Barriers like transport are tackled head-on, with minibuses and trained staff ensuring no child is left behind.
Netherton Moss Primary School
At Netherton Moss every child is given the chance to lead, learn, and love sport.
From a thriving girls’ football squad to mixed rugby clubs and whole-school Sports Week, sport at this school is celebrated through inclusion, and championed by a passionate team of staff, pupils, and families.
With 49 per cent SEND and 60 per cent pupil premium, equity is at the heart of every event.
This is a school where sport builds character, community, and confidence.
Rowan Tree Primary School
Physical development is woven into the ethos of Rowan Tree Primary School.
With trampolines and climbing equipment in every classroom, this school recognises movement as not just a skill, but as a vital tool for regulation and wellbeing.
Dance is a highlight at Rowan Tree. Sessions led by Danspiration and Hannah, the UK’s only qualified Zumba instructor with down syndrome, model inclusion and inspiration in every step.
Rushbrook Primary Academy
At Rushbrook Primary Academy, every sporting opportunity is designed to broaden horizons, build confidence, and spark joy whether through elite venues like Wimbledon and Sportcity or grassroots events led by pupils themselves.
Girls’ football has flourished, with participation rising across Key Stage 2 and leadership emerging through the Girls Active Programme.
Recognition from The FA and Team MCR, including a visit from Steph Houghton MBE and Lia Lewis, has cemented Rushbrook’s role as a champion of girls in sport.
- Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Secondary School
Cardinal Langley RC High School
Cardinal Langley RC High School delivers an inclusive and dynamic PE programme that inspires students to embrace sport as a pathway to growth, opportunity, and community.
The department offers a wide range of morning and after-school clubs, engaging over 100 students weekly in activities such as football, netball, badminton, and dance.
As leaders of the Rochdale Schools’ PE Forum, the team ensures borough-wide access to coordinated and inclusive sporting events.
Maghull High School
Maghull High School delivers a dynamic and inclusive PE programme that fosters student achievement, personal growth, and a lifelong love of sport.
The school enriches the sporting experience through elite opportunities, including training at Everton FC and visits to Liverpool FC, inspiring future career aspirations.
Initiatives such as the #kNOwKnifeCrime Campaign, the London Marathon, and a popular ski trip reflect the school’s commitment to holistic development and wellbeing.
St James’ Catholic High School
St James’ Catholic High School has earned medals in over 10 events including triathlon, basketball, and new age kurling.
The school also plays a vital role in the local community by hosting primary cluster events, supporting transition and leadership development.
Eight FA Gamechangers lead sessions and promote equal access for girls in football. The school’s commitment to inclusion is evident in its hosting of SEND events, ensuring all students have the opportunity to participate and represent their school.
- Leadership Team of the Year
Archbishop Blanch School
As a school direct partner with Liverpool John Moores University, Archbishop Blanch School plays a key role in training future teachers and supporting system-wide improvement.
Leaders actively collaborate with other schools and national networks, ensuring Archbishop Blanch remains at the forefront of educational development.
The leadership team is cohesive, outward-facing, and driven by moral purpose.
Ascent Autism Specialist College
Ascent Autism Specialist College has transformed student outcomes under the leadership of Julliet Doherty, increasing enrolment from 12 to 41.
The college champions inclusion through employer autism awareness training, supported internships, and SEND-focused initiatives.
Students thrive through vocational projects like the Horse Box Café and circus arts workshops, while staff benefit from high-quality CPD and wellbeing programmes.
Chantlers Primary School
Staff at Chantlers Primary School are nurtured through coaching and CPD, with high morale and retention.
The team’s commitment to inclusion is evident in their support for vulnerable learners and their leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, which included remote learning, food hampers, and community outreach.
Beyond their own school, the SLT members mentor other schools, share expertise, and foster networks of trust. Their leadership is defined by compassion, humility, and a relentless belief that every child deserves the very best.
Churchtown Primary School
Following the Southport tragedy, the leadership team at Churchtown Primary School embedded trauma-informed practices into daily school life. This significantly improved emotional regulation, attendance, and readiness to learn.
Staff wellbeing was also prioritised through reflective supervision and mental health support, leading to a school-wide shift to a relational behaviour policy rooted in connection and consistency.
Churchtown Primary continues to lead with integrity, compassion, and ambition, creating a lasting legacy for pupils, staff, and the wider community.
- Teacher of the Year
Sponsored by CER Education
Christina McArdle – St Damian’s RC Science College
Christina’s innovative approach bridges the gap between Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3, delivering whole-school phonics training, leading the development of the school’s READ strategy, and integrating engaging tools like Canva, Kahoot, and Padlet to enhance learning.
Her commitment to inclusion is evident in her tailored support for SEND students, her creative library initiatives such as the “Book Buzz Bonanza,” and her use of student voice to shape classroom practice.
Corie Higgins – Stockport Academy
Corie’s visionary leadership, creative curriculum, and unwavering dedication has transformed her department into a vibrant hub of innovation and inclusion.
Her work extends far beyond the classroom, leading impactful co-curricular projects such as ‘trashion’ design, which combines sustainability with social awareness.
Under her guidance, students have excelled in national and international competitions, with their achievements celebrated at every level.
Sam Harvey – Rainford High
In just four years, Sam has made an extraordinary impact on both academic outcomes and the wider school culture.
Sam’s commitment to enrichment is exceptional. He has led CREST Awards, STEM days, Olympiads, and even a student rocket launch. He’s written his own chemistry textbook, mentors new leaders, and actively supports school trips, DofE, and events.
Described by students as someone who “pushes us to do our best” and “makes everyone feel like they matter,” Sam is a role model and an inspirational educator.
Stuart Hide – Runshaw College
Stuart’s inspirational leadership and unwavering commitment to student success has transformed one of the UK’s most technical post-16 qualifications into a nationally respected programme.
A former Royal Engineer, Stuart brings real-world experience, discipline, and compassion into his teaching.
Stuart’s impact extends beyond the classroom. He has raised over £15,000 for Claire House Children’s Hospice in memory of his daughter, Poppy, and was honoured by the Department for Education with an invitation to a Royal Garden Party.
- School Support Star of the Year
Sponsored by Apprenticeships at Liverpool Hope University
Karen Elcombe – Our Lady of Compassion RC Primary School
With 26 years of unwavering dedication, Karen is the heartbeat of the school.
From expertly managing behaviour and delivering interventions, to leading sports teams, organising fundraisers, and supporting pupils emotionally, Karen’s commitment is unmatched.
She is first to arrive, last to leave, and often returns on weekends, whether to feed the school fish or prepare for magical events like the Christmas Fair.
Karla Taylor – SEE (Oldham) CIC
Karla’s journey is one of resilience and transformation. Drawing from her own lived experience with ADHD and challenges in mainstream education, she has become a beacon of support for some of the most vulnerable learners.
Karla’s efforts have secured continued funding for intensive support packages, widened accreditation opportunities for learners predicted to achieve no qualifications, and fostered a culture of inclusion and empathy across the school.
Kellie Tisdale – The Birkenhead Park School
When Kellie joined BPS in 2022, the school faced the lowest attendance rates in the Wirral. Just three years later, under her visionary leadership, BPS now ranks first out of 21 similar schools.
She built a high-performing attendance team, embedded a culture of shared responsibility across staff and families, and implemented a rigorous daily operation, from early morning calls to doorstep visits and structured interventions.
Kellie is reshaping how attendance is tackled in some of the UK’s most disadvantaged communities.
Sam Cookson – Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Primary School
Sam’s work with children facing complex emotional and special educational needs has transformed lives. From creating bespoke routines for school-avoidant pupils to leading therapy sessions and coffee mornings for families, Sam’s support is both practical and deeply personal.
Her leadership was especially vital in the aftermath of the Southport attack. Sam stepped up without hesitation, supporting families at Southport FC, opening the school during holidays, and leading transition sessions for anxious children.
- Most Inspirational Multi Academy Trust
Sponsored by Satis Education
BePART Educational Trust
BePART Educational Trust has a pioneering leadership model rooted in subsidiarity, clarity, and accountability. The school cultivates a culture of high expectations and professional autonomy.
BePART’s influence extends beyond its schools, supporting local institutions through mentoring, professional development, and strategic partnerships such as Cradle to Career. Its financial stewardship ensures sustainable growth and continued investment in staff and curriculum.
Endeavour Learning Trust
Endeavour Learning Trust displays an unwavering commitment to creating schools where children and staff feel safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
The trust has expanded opportunities for families and communities by securing approval to open a new nursery and two SEND provisions. It has strengthened its support for communities by launching a free safeguarding academy and CPD networks for schools beyond the trust.
Endeavour Learning Trust exemplifies resilience, innovation, and heart.
The People’s Learning Trust
The People’s Learning Trust is bold, compassionate, and relentlessly focused on improving lives.
Through Turing Scheme funding, students have studied in Aruba, China, Chile, Spain, and soon South Africa, building global awareness, resilience, and cultural capital.
The trust’s trauma-informed, relationship-focused approach blends academic rigour with wellbeing, leadership development, and degree-level sport programmes.
- Most Inspirational Specialist School
Abbot’s Lea School
Abbot’s Lea School delivers a personalised, multi-disciplinary curriculum. From early years to sixth form, the school nurtures academic progress alongside communication, wellbeing, independence, and employability.
As the only specialist school in Merseyside with its own integrated multi-disciplinary team, Abbot’s Lea offers on-site therapeutic support, a rich life-skills programme, and real-world learning opportunities. Its award-winning ADHD clinic, run in partnership with Alder Hey, provides accessible, community-based care that has transformed lives.
Knowsley Central Primary School
The school’s approach goes beyond academics, delivering a life-changing experience for children and families through personalised learning, therapeutic support, and strong community partnerships. Every decision is guided by core values: inspiring engagement, building relationships, increasing communication, promoting independence, encouraging resilience, and fostering self-regulation.
Knowsley Central Primary School continues to set the standard for specialist education, empowering children to thrive and succeed in every aspect of life.
SEE (Oldham) CIC
SEE provides a holistic, asset-based approach that ensures every learner feels a sense of belonging and is empowered to fulfil their potential.
With 100 per cent of students reporting improvements in emotional wellbeing, confidence, and other key outcomes, the school’s impact is both measurable and deeply personal.
Highlights of SEE’s provision include: personalised curriculums, innovative teaching methods, inclusive culture, unique extracurriculars, and strong partnerships.
The Pendlebury Centre
The Pendlebury Centre offers a nurturing, safe, and empowering environment where every student is seen, heard, and supported.
With a cohort of 60–70 learners, the centre provides bespoke 12-week programmes designed to re-engage students in learning, communication, and self-care, with the goal of reintegration into their long-term educational setting.
The centre’s holistic model combines innovative teaching, emotional development, and a compassion-driven culture. Enrichment activities such as art therapy and outdoor learning help build confidence, resilience, and independence.
- Most Inspirational Sixth Form & College
Sponsored by Liverpool John Moores University
Ascent Autism Specialist College
Ascent College is redefining what inclusive education looks like. With a bold commitment to personalised learning, career-focused pathways, and holistic wellbeing, the Ascent team empowers students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
The college’s community engagement is inspiring. Through AAA Forums, parent workshops, and sustained employer relationships, Ascent fosters a collaborative network that supports every learner’s journey.
Birkenhead Sixth Form College
With a bold belief that every student can achieve excellence, Birkenhead Sixth Form College empowers learners from disadvantaged backgrounds to outperform national benchmarks and reach elite universities.
From its evidence-informed teaching house style to the BePART culture of positivity, ambition, resilience, and thoughtfulness, the college creates an environment where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Winstanley College
Through its Excellence, Support and Inspiration (ESI) programme, students have logged over 379,000 hours of enrichment, participating in everything from musicals and mock trials to international academic trips and STEM competitions.
Winstanley’s inclusive ethos, student-led societies, and pioneering wellbeing initiatives – including therapy dog sessions and peer-led mental health advocacy – continue to set it apart as a truly inspirational institution.
- Most Inspirational Secondary School
Burnage Academy for Boys
With a student body that includes 50 per cent eligible for free school meals, 64 per cent EAL, and 24 per cent with special educational needs, Burnage Academy has become a beacon of aspiration and achievement.
Since 2018, the school has redefined what success looks like for boys, embedding values of resilience, independence, and care into every aspect of school life.
From trauma-informed teaching and exceptional academic progress to promoting mental health and building community cohesion, Burnage is leading the way.
Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School
Cardinal Heenan celebrate a year of exceptional achievement, personal growth, and community spirit.
From being named one of the ‘Top Ten Happiest Schools in the UK’ by The Times to raising over £11,500 to help save Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice, the school has demonstrated a deep commitment to nurturing compassionate, high-achieving young people.
With a strong emphasis on pupil voice, continuous improvement, and a thriving extracurricular culture, Cardinal Heenan is a school where joy, aspiration, and community spirit flourish.
St Edward’s College
St Edward’s empowers students through its ambitious super-curricular programmes, including the Higher and Extended Project Qualifications (HPQ and EPQ).
Beyond the classroom, students have participated in enriching fieldwork and cultural visits, including scientific research at Formby Beach and creative workshops at Hope University.
The college’s Catholic ethos is central to its identity, expressed through regular Mass services, pastoral care, and values such as “Be Proud, Grow in Faith, Treat People Well, Work Hard, and Join In.”
- Most Inspirational Primary School
Sponsored by Angel Solutions
Churchtown Primary School
Following the devastating Southport attacks in July 2024, Churchtown became a beacon of hope and healing.
The school launched a new two-year-old provision, expanded wraparound care to nearly 400 children, and introduced enrichment activities.
Fundraising efforts raised over £400,000 and inspired national attention, including a BBC documentary.
Churchtown Primary School’s story is one of courage, compassion, and community.
St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary School
St Elizabeth’s offers a rich and engaging curriculum. In just one term, children enjoyed funded trips to Blackpool Zoo, Chester Zoo, and Gulliver’s World, while others took part in workshops with poets, circus performers, and inspirational speakers like Sue Higginson OBE and former pupil Andrew Grant.
The school’s extracurricular programme is equally vibrant.
The school’s pastoral care is outstanding and academically, the school continues to excel. Pupils of all backgrounds make strong progress.
St Peter’s C.E. Primary School
Pupil leadership is central to school life at St Peter’s. From the Farnworth Combined mega-council to the award-winning School Streets initiative, children are empowered to lead real change in their community.
Beyond the classroom, St Peter’s hosts Aspirations Week, where children dress as their future selves and meet professionals from a range of industries.
The school’s social media channels showcase a wealth of creative outcomes, demonstrating the joy and ambition that define daily life at this school.
- WOW Recognition Award
Sponsored by ASL Group
Green Fold School
Through dynamic partnerships with organisations such as School Games, Wheels for All, Beth Tweddle Gymnastics, and more, Green Fold School has built a sustainable and thriving PE programme.
This initiative has not only enhanced physical wellbeing but also boosted pupil confidence, independence, and parental engagement. Maintaining School Games Gold status for two consecutive years, Green Fold’s work represents a cultural shift in SEND education.
The school ensures every child has access to meaningful, engaging physical education.
Hillside High School
Hillside has launched a bold and heartfelt initiative that nurtures the next generation of educators, starting with its own students.
The initiative has seen former Hillside pupils return as qualified teachers. Hillside’s valued partnerships have enabled a robust and sustainable training route.
The school has created a legacy of excellence that is transforming lives and communities. Hillside’s story exemplifies the power of investing in people, passion, and purpose.
The Hollins
The Hollins implemented a transformative creative arts initiative called Belonging: Young Women Empowerment Project.
Led by a group of diverse and underrepresented young women, the project challenges societal stereotypes and redefines what it means to be seen, heard, and valued.
The project culminated in a seven-week exhibition at The Dome, Accrington, marking the venue’s inaugural arts showcase. The legacy continues with the launch of Belonging, the first female-focused podcast at a UK secondary school, amplifying voices and stories of inspirational women.