We are delighted to have won the title at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2026, organised by Independent School Parent.
The award was announced at a ceremony on Wednesday, 14 October.
Dr Helen Wright, chair of judges and former vice-chair of the Independent Schools Council, said:
“Our winner in this category makes really wonderful use of the landscape around it. Indeed, the countryside, coast, and local communities often seem to become an extension of the classroom. Just as importantly, pupils are encouraged not merely to enjoy where they live, but to engage with it, contribute to it, and help shape it.”
The regional award celebrates the individuality of independent schools and how they both reflect and are enhanced by their locations.
Our Headmaster, Stuart Turner, said:
“This is an extraordinary achievement for our school, celebrating many of the qualities we’re proud of – our vibrant community, our connection to the natural world, our ethos of taking education beyond the classroom, and the way our pupils get involved and give back at every opportunity.
We are especially pleased to celebrate this milestone in our 30th year, looking ahead to a bright future where we remain dedicated to nurturing curious, grounded and outward-looking young people who are ready to make a positive difference to the world around them.”
This marks the fourth time in five years that Ballard has been recognised by the awards.
The school was a finalist in the Performing Arts category in 2022 and the Sports category in 2023, before winning Co-educational School of the Year in 2024.
Ballard has also recently been ranked among the best-value private schools in the country by The Telegraph. In addition, the school was named Best Education Management Business of the Year – UK in the 2026 Global 100 Awards.
The success continues, with Ballard currently a finalist in two categories at the Independent Schools Association Awards: Outstanding Sport and Excellence in Sustainability.
