South Wilts Grammar School has been named State Secondary School of the Year for the South West by The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026.
This prestigious accolade marks the first time the school has received this award and represents significant, public recognition of a community built on many years of growth, innovation and ambition.
The award is a reflection of South Wilts’ exceptional and continually improving academic outcomes, the breadth and quality of opportunities offered beyond the classroom, and the remarkable achievements of students across all areas of school life. The school’s inclusive ethos and the positive culture created by the whole school community is also central to our success.
Headteacher Dr Amanda Smith said, “We are absolutely delighted to receive this award. It reflects the hard work, talent and dedication of our students, staff and wider community. South Wilts is a school built on aspiration, care and ambition, and this recognition is a testament to what our students achieve every day, academically, creatively and personally.
As we approach our centenary in 2027, this award feels especially meaningful. It celebrates not only where we are today, but the journey our school has taken over the last 100 years, and the exciting future ahead of us.”
The Trust Board’s strategic leadership also played a key role in the school’s success.
Liz Ogilvie, Chair of Trustees, commented, “This award is richly deserved and reflects the collective effort of students, staff, trustees and families. The school has made extraordinary progress over many years, and this recognition is a wonderful marker of just how far it has come.”
The announcement will be featured in this week’s Sunday Times Parent Power supplement. South Wilts Grammar School will be celebrating the award throughout the coming year as it prepares to mark its 100th anniversary and looks forward to a new chapter in its history.
For more details - https://www.thetimes.com/best-schools-league-table/secondary/article/secondary-schools-revealed-2026-g9w9n8rqw

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