Smith’s Wood makes awards shortlist: Smith’s Wood Academy, which was judged to be ‘inadequate’ just three years ago, has been shortlisted for two national education awards in recognition of its ‘remarkable turnaround.’
The academy has been named a finalist for Secondary School of the Year at the Education Today Awards 2026, while Principal Steve Huntington has been shortlisted for Headteacher of the Year.
The nominations are the latest milestone in an extraordinary transformation for the North Solihull academy. In March, Smith’s Wood was named ‘England’s most improved school’ following its positive Ofsted inspection, which brought it out of special measures.
It showed that key areas such as leadership, behaviour and attendance are all at ‘expected standard,’ and that no areas cause any significant concern. This month the academy was also recognised among the top 10% most improved schools nationally for attendance by education data specialists FFT.
Mr Huntington, who has led the transformation since joining the academy three years ago, said the nominations and the attendance award reflect the collective efforts of the whole school community.
“It has been a remarkable turnaround. The school is unrecognisable compared to three years ago and I believe that the school’s own journey sends a powerful message to our students. 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 our success too. We couldn’t have made this progress and get this recognition without the effort from our students and the support of their families – and we are still working hard to go further.”
Assistant Principal Joti Odedra added: “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 winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Friday 4 December at the Park Plaza London Riverbank Hotel.