On Friday 3rd July a historic event was marked as Etone College was named Secondary School of the Year at the Education Awards 2026.
The awards are given to schools across the country who are dedicated to inspiring and developing pupils experiences, working with communities and driving change in their environments. This year marked the 10th year of the awards rounding out the decade with a magnificent event.
Entering the Millenium Point Auditorium, the packed room was met with a fantastic atmosphere as the suspense continued to build. For the Etone delegation led by Mr Smith, it was the biggest award of the night for Secondary Schools that was the main target for the event. As the nominees were announced there was a deafening cheer for the school as those in attendance showed their support.
Uniquely the winner in each category was shown via a pre-prepared video which had only been seen by the creator. However, as the video began to play it became clear that Etone had delivered on the promise and bought home the award.
With the entire delegation making their way to the stage to accept the award it was a poignant moment for the first year of the awards would have coincided with Etone being in special measures. This marks a decades long triumph with the school being awarded for Progress 8, community engagement and cultural opportunities to name a few.
As part of the video packaged there was also surprise recommendations for the awards by Jodie Gosling, MP for Nuneaton and then-Mayor of Nuneaton and Bedworth Bhim Saru.
Following the event Mr Smith spoke to our report and shared "We have been successful with awards for the school in the past few years and each time it is special. However, this one is the big one - The one that really stamps our mark on education as being names School of the Year, it really is the pinnacle of what we can achieve. I'm so thankful for the support of the entire staff, pupils and our Etone friends and families. It is just a lovely way to end the year".
The award can be viewed in pride of place along with the other trophies, prizes and titles bestowed on the school in it's rich history in the School Foyer. A big thank you goes out to all.
