School celebrates national award for its work supporting children
A school has received national recognition for its work supporting boys with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH)
A special school is celebrating after being named a 2026 Silver Winner in the Pearson National Teaching Awards for SEND and Inclusive Practice.
King’s Academy Lord Wilson in Sarisbury Green received the national recognition for its work supporting boys with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH).
Headteacher Nigel Matthias said the award was a proud moment for everyone connected to the school.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted that King’s Academy Lord Wilson has been recognised with a national teaching award for SEND and inclusive practice.
“This is the highest level of recognition for a special school like ours, and I’m delighted for our whole community, our staff and our students.”
The school supports 62 boys with SEMH needs, some of them have struggled in previous schools before finding success at King’s Academy Lord Wilson.
Mr Matthias said: “We educate 62 boys, all with social, emotional and mental health needs. We serve a disadvantaged community and more than 80 per cent of our pupils are eligible for free school meals.
“Last year our GCSE results placed us among the top-performing special schools in the country, and I am immensely proud of the opportunities we are giving our young people.
“We talk to our boys about the fact that this place can change you if you let it. Many of our young people come to us having not been successful in their previous schools, and some have been excluded. When they come here, we believe they have every chance of success.”
Mr Matthias said the national recognition was a validation of the school’s work in breaking down barriers.
He said: “For us, this award is validation for breaking down barriers. We believe that just because pupils attend a special school, it does not mean they cannot achieve excellence.
“We really do believe we are changing life chances.”
The school joined King’s Group Academies three years ago, a move Mr Matthias said had helped transform what it can offer students.
Richard Thomas, Chair of Governors, said the award was a proud moment for the whole school community.
He said: “This is an absolutely monumental award for the school. It is the Premier League of teaching and education.
“As Chair of Governors, I’m incredibly proud of the achievements of our staff. They don’t do this work for awards, but this recognition is a testament to their absolute commitment and dedication to the young people we support at King’s Academy Lord Wilson.”
The school has also been shortlisted for TES Specialist Provision School of the Year alongside seven other schools. The winner will be announced on Friday.