Independent School of the Year for Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) – Entry Form


Our judges would like to hear the story behind your school’s commitment to DEIJ during 2025–26. This is your opportunity to show why you’re proud of where you work and how your school has built an approach to diversity, equality, inclusion and justice that is thoughtful, lasting and firmly embedded in everyday life. Bring your work to life with examples and supporting evidence where appropriate—but steer clear of long lists. Above all, help us picture the atmosphere. If our judges were to step through your doors, how would they recognise the importance of DEIJ in the way your community learns, works and treats one another?

The questions below should guide your entry. Please keep the focus squarely on your DEIJ strategy rather than the wider story of the school.

  • What makes your school’s DEIJ strategy stand out?
    How does your approach show a genuine, responsive and ongoing commitment to core DEIJ principles and strong practice? What makes your programme worthy of this award? (Around 200 words.)
  • How has your DEIJ programme in 2025–26 been shaped by a clear purpose and remit, and how does it support the whole school community?
    Tell us about the initiatives this year that you are particularly proud of. (Around 150 words.)
  • What difference has your DEIJ strategy made in practice?
    How have students taken the lead in meaningful initiatives, and what have they learned along the way? How does your work help young people play their part in shaping a more inclusive society? (Around 150 words.)

2026 Awards Timeline

Nominations
open

24th March

Nominations
close

4th June

Commended
announced

July

Finalists
announced

September

Judges
meet

September

Awards
ceremony

October