The Sunday Times reveals the top schools in the UK
by Educate Magazine December 5, 2025 · Uncategorized
We’re thrilled to see schools from our region shining on the national stage!
Holy Cross RC High School, Chorley, earned the title of State 11–16 Secondary School of the Year 2026, and the University of Liverpool Maths School claimed State Sixth Form College of the Year 2026 in the 2026 Parent Power National Awards (state secondary schools). These incredible achievements highlight the dedication, innovation, and excellence in education across our community.
2026 Parent Power National Awards (state secondary schools)
- State Secondary School of the Year 2026: Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet
- Highly commended State Secondary School of the Year 2026: Churston Ferrers Grammar School, Brixham
- State Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026: Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet
- Comprehensive School of the Year 2026: West London Free School
- Comprehensive School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026: Dame Alice Owen’s School, Potters Bar
- State Secondary School of the Year for A-levels 2026: Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet
- State Secondary School of the Year for GCSEs 2026: Wilson’s School, Wallington
- State 11-16 Secondary School of the Year 2026: Holy Cross RC High School, Chorley
- State Sixth Form College of the Year 2026: University of Liverpool Maths School
- State Sixth Form College of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026: King’s Maths School, London
- State Faith Secondary School of the Year 2026: JFS, Harrow
- International Baccalaureate State School of the Year 2026: Torquay Boys Grammar School
- International Baccalaureate State School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026: Ashcroft Technology Academy, London
This achievement comes as part of the wider The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026. The guide reveals the UK’s highest-achieving primary and secondary schools.
Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, said:
“The educational landscape is testing – budget challenges, rising student mental health issues, special educational needs and an increasingly uncertain future. But there is also so much to celebrate from the dedication of teachers who are finding ever more innovative and impactful ways to enrich their students and give them the very best start in life.
“As well as celebrating the academic excellence of the top schools it is uplifting to see how they are shaping their students to be ready for the 21st century, and instilling a lifelong love of learning.”
