Staff and pupils at Stanhope Primary School are celebrating after being shortlisted for what’s known as ’the Oscars of Education’—alongside a number of other national awards.

The school in Mansell Road, Greenford has been nominated for 2 Tes Schools Awards — formerly the Times Educational Supplement —which recognise the best schools and teachers in the United Kingdom. It has also been shortlisted in the Pearson National Teaching Awards and National Diversity Awards.

The school is in the running for:

• Inclusive School of the Year (Tes)
• Community Engagement Initiative of the Year (Tes)
• Early Years Team of the Year (Pearson Awards)
• Community Organisation Award for Race, Religion and Faith (National Diversity Awards)

If the school wins the Pearson Award, the announcement will be made on national television as part of The One Show in November.

Last year, Stanhope was shortlisted for Primary School of the Year and Early Years Foundation Stage Setting of the Year at the Tes School Awards and was one of 8 schools selected for each category.

Headteacher Hannah Widdison said parents and carers were ‘absolutely thrilled’ when she told them the news.

“It just shows the love and energy that the community pours into the school,” she said. “There’s something magical when you walk through the doors at Stanhope. Every visitor mentions it.”

‘The Oscars of education’

Hannah added that the 4 nominations reflect just how far the school has come in a year.

“They’re all prestigious in different ways,” she said.

“The Tes Awards are known as the Oscars of education. The Pearson Awards have national visibility through The One Show, and the National Diversity Awards are especially meaningful as they span all sectors—not just education.”

Giving back

Last year, the school opened a Give Back room, where parents can donate and collect second-hand clothing and household items, and an eco-refill shop—managed by pupils—where families can buy essentials like soap and detergent if they bring refillable containers.

Stanhope welcomes students from 64 different heritages. The staff work to equip them not only with academic knowledge, but with the mindset to make the world a better place.

“We’re encouraging children to be change-makers,” Hannah said.

Celebrity supporter

The school also boasts a celebrity supporter—TV presenter and disability activist Shani Dhanda, who has a classroom named in her honour.

“Shani first visited us after we named a classroom after her. We name all our classrooms after inspirational people. She fell in love with the school and has now visited 3 times. It’s lovely to have her seal of approval.”

Outstanding contribution

Councillor Josh Blacker, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for a fairer start, said: “I’m delighted for Stanhope Primary School, which has been recognised yet again for its outstanding contribution to its community, this time across several categories.

“With 98% of schools receiving ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted , our borough continues to demonstrate educational excellence. We’re very proud of the high quality of education our schools provide, helping young people thrive year after year.

“I wish Stanhope Primary School the best of luck at the respective awards ceremonies this summer and hope it brings home the gold.”

To learn more about Stanhope Primary School, visit the school’s website.