Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust is celebrating a record six national attendance awards, the highest number its schools have received in a single year.
Presented by FFT, one of the UK’s leading education data organisations, the awards recognise schools with exceptional attendance and attendance improvement.
Smith’s Wood Academy was ranked in the top 10% most improved schools for attendance in England, which Principal Mr Huntington said is ‘phenomenal’.
“School is a happier place and it’s been transformed in the last couple of years. Students want to be in school and they want to learn and I really want to say a big thank you to them for putting in the effort, as well as our families and staff for their support,” he said.
Fairfax Academy won two awards – ranking in the top 25% of secondary schools nationally for attendance, as well as the top 25% of similar schools serving comparable communities. Bournville All-Through School was ranked among the top 25% most improved secondary schools nationally, and Erdington Academy received two awards for being in the top 25% of similar schools for both the academic year and the Summer term.
Principal of Fairfax Academy, Mr Sean Castle, said: “We take a really supportive and holistic approach to attendance. In the last year we have expanded our student support network, which includes student mental health ambassadors and dedicated wellbeing spaces such as our new SEMH room. It’s made a real difference to many of our students and, as a school, we’re dedicated to working one-on-one with students, families and carers to remove any barriers to attendance.”
Executive Principal of Erdington Academy, Mr Mallett, added: “Strong attendance is a key indicator of future success. This award reflects our commitment to working closely with students and families to ensure young people are in school and able to achieve their best.”
Head of Academy at Bournville All-Through School, Ms Dhinsa, agreed that excellent attendance is the foundation for success.
“Being in school every day gives young people the best possible opportunity to achieve academically, develop socially and take full advantage of the wider opportunities that school life offers,” she said. “This recognition is a testament to the collective effort of our entire school community.”
The awards recognise the sustained work taking place across Fairfax schools to promote attendance, support families and remove barriers that can prevent young people from accessing education. Nationally, school attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels, making these achievements even more remarkable.
FFT Attendance Awards 2025/26
Fairfax Academy
- Top 25% nationally for secondary school attendance
- Top 25% of similar secondary schools for attendance
Erdington Academy
- Top 25% of similar secondary schools for attendance (academic year)
- Top 25% of similar secondary schools for attendance (summer term)
Smith’s Wood Academy
- Top 10% most improved secondary schools
Bournville All-Through School
- Top 25% most improved secondary schools