Small Independent School of the Year – Entry Form


This award is for an independent school with a maximum of 275 students, of any age. The school can cater for any academic level.

Our judges would like you to tell them the story of your school during 2023-24; share your pride in where you work and explain why being a small school means that the young people in your care enjoy an unparalleled student experience. Give us some examples of what you are describing and share any data which supports your entry (but please avoid lists!). Most of all, give us a sense of the benefits of life as a small school as they would appear to our judges if they were lucky enough to walk through your doors. 

These are the key questions to answer in your entry: please make sure your entry focuses on your role as a great small school (rather than just a great school).

  • Why do you think your school is special? What is it about the nature of your small school community which makes it stand out from your peers? What do you believe are the signal successes and achievements of your school which qualify it to be considered ‘best in class’ and worthy of this award? (Circa 200 words)
  • Why do you think your small school status has met the specific requirements of your students in 2023-24 and provided them with a positive school experience?  Tell us about any particular projects and initiatives which the school undertook this year of which you are particularly proud. (Circa 150 words)
  • Tell us about the essential values of your school community and the impact these have on your students; as a small school, how do you prepare them for adulthood and their place in 21st century society? (circa 150 words)

2024 Awards Timeline

Nominations
open

March

Nominations
close

4thJune

Commended
announced

3rdJuly

Finalists
announced

9thSeptember

Judges
meet

September

Awards
ceremony

October