Moor End Academy in Huddersfield has received national recognition for its commitment to inclusive, high-quality education and the life-changing impact it has on its pupils and wider community.

It was chosen from thousands of schools across the UK to receive the prestigious Silver Award in the Pearson National Teaching Awards for Making a Difference, Secondary School of the Year. Moor End Academy is now in contention for the coveted Gold Award, to be announced at a national ceremony in London and broadcast on BBC One’s The One Show later this year.

The recognition marks a major milestone for the academy, which was named a World Class School in 2021 and rated Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted in June 2024.

Headteacher Natasha Carman said the award is a testament to the collective dedication of staff and students who work together every day to shape a school culture rooted in respect, ambition and responsibility. “This is a place where pupils truly matter,” she said. “They are seen, heard, and empowered to succeed.”

Moor End Academy serves a community facing social challenges, with nearly 20 per cent of pupils living in areas ranked among the most deprived in the country. Despite this, the academy consistently delivers exceptional academic outcomes. Its Progress 8 scores over the past three years reflect the high expectations and outstanding teaching that define the school.

Ms Carman said: “Our teaching colleagues at Moor End go above and beyond to ignite curiosity and build critical thinking. Lessons are purposefully linked across subjects, allowing pupils to explore complex ideas through creative connections.

“The strength of the relationships between staff and students and the care that we all take to constantly improve our school, but not just in exams and outcomes like grades. It is a rounded and successful person we want to develop, not a machine. That is what matters, to us, to the community, and most importantly, to the pupils.”

Inclusion is important at the school, and pupils with special educational needs are supported through bespoke strategies, especially those with visual impairments, who receive extensive life skills training. Pupils with additional needs not only participate fully in school life but often excel. Several visually impaired pupils have even gone on to represent Great Britain in the sport of Goalball.

Pastoral care underpins the school’s approach. Each pupil is given access to ‘safe staff’, individuals they can confide in and trust. In one case, a Head of Year joined the Year 9 football team to encourage a pupil who was struggling to attend school.

The impact of the academy extends far beyond the school gates. Parental involvement is encouraged through translator services, safeguarding workshops, and inclusive activities such as parent-and-pupil baking sessions.

Sir Michael Morpurgo, President of the Teaching Awards Trust, celebrated the winners, saying: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom,offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come.”

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, echoed this sentiment: “Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession. We’re thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements.”

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson added: “Brilliant teachers make the single biggest difference to a child’s education. Teachers don’t just deliver lessons – they transform lives, inspire curiosity, and build the confidence our children need to succeed.”

Joshua Cronin, Education Partnerships Director at Step into Teaching, the sponsor of the award, noted: “Your commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and transformative environment has had a profound impact on your students and wider community. This recognition celebrates the real change you’ve made.”

Ms Carman concluded: “At Moor End Academy, the change is tangible. Pupils arrive at the school gates knowing they are valued, protected and challenged. They leave not only with strong qualifications but with the confidence and character to take on the world. The academy is more than a school; it is a place where children are given their ‘passports to success,’ where lives are transformed, and where culture matters more than compliance.”