St George’s Ascot named finalist for Small Independent School of the Year 2026

The Independent Schools of the Year Awards, run by Independent School Parent, celebrate excellence and outstanding pupil experiences across the independent education sector. Now in their ninth year, the awards attracted a record number of entries from hundreds of schools across the country in 2026.

The Small Independent School of the Year category specifically celebrates schools where being small is a strength: enabling an education that is attentive, agile and genuinely centred around the individual pupil.

For St George’s, this recognition feels particularly special.

Our size enables us to know every pupil exceptionally well, while offering an extraordinary breadth of opportunity. Small classes and tailored teaching mean pupils can be stretched, supported and encouraged as individuals, helping them to make excellent academic progress while developing the confidence to pursue their own interests and ambitions.

That personal approach reaches far beyond the classroom. Whether representing the School in sport, performing on stage, developing leadership skills, taking part in trips and expeditions or simply trying something new, pupils are encouraged and supported to make the most of school life.

Head, Hannah Fox, said:

"Being named a finalist for Small Independent School of the Year is a wonderful recognition of our whole community. Our size is one of our greatest strengths: it allows us to know and support our pupils exceptionally well, while giving them access to an extraordinary breadth of opportunities.

We are ambitious for every young person here – academically, personally and in everything they choose to pursue – and I am incredibly proud of the staff and pupils who make St George’s the special community it is."

The recognition comes at an exciting point in the School’s history. From September 2027, boys will join Years 7 and 9 as St George’s begins its journey towards becoming fully co-educational and, in partnership with St George’s School Windsor Castle, creating an exceptional through-school education for pupils aged 3–18.

As St George’s takes this next step, the qualities at the heart of our small-school experience will remain fundamental to our future: knowing every pupil, nurturing individual strengths and providing the opportunities and encouragement for every young person to step in and stand out.

The winners of the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2026 will be announced at the awards ceremony on Wednesday 14 October.