“This sends a powerful message to our students that we can compete on a national stage.”
Smith’s Wood Academy is celebrating after being shortlisted for Secondary School of the Year and Principal of the Year at the Education Today Awards 2026, while Fairfax Academy is up for Faculty of the Year.
Mr Steve Huntington said the nominations reflect the collective efforts of a school community committed to helping every student achieve their full potential.
“I believe that the school’s own improvement journey sends a powerful message to our students that they can compete on a national stage too. Just as we are all doing at Smith’s Wood, if you work hard and believe in what you’re doing, recognition and success will follow. The community is very much part of that. We couldn’t get make this progress and get this recognition without the effort from our students and support of their families.”
The dual nominations crown a year of national recognition for Smith’s Wood Academy, which was also named among the top 10% most improved schools in England for attendance earlier this month.
Assistant Principal Miss Joti Odedra said: “Being nominated for Secondary School of the Year is a celebration of everything that makes Smith’s Wood Academy special, including our students, staff, families and wider community. It speaks volumes about the journey we’ve been on together and the school we have become.”
The Trust is also celebrating the nomination of Mr Ben Hewitt, Head of Business and Computing at Fairfax Academy, who has been shortlisted for Head of Faculty of the Year.
Ben joined Fairfax Academy in 2002 and said the nomination was both unexpected and deeply appreciated.
“I was excited and genuinely thrilled. It’s lovely to know that somebody has recognised what we’re doing and taken the time to put forward a nomination.
“One of our biggest strengths is the incredibly supportive culture we have here. We have clear curriculum systems in place, strong relationships between staff and students, and a team that continually strives for the very best outcomes. That’s something I’m really proud to be part of.”
Congratulations to Steve, Ben and everyone at Smith’s Wood Academy and Fairfax Academy for this fantastic achievement. We wish them every success at the awards ceremony.
The awards take place on Friday 4th December at the beautiful Park Plaza London Riverbank Hotel.
See a full list of finalists here.