Oasis Academy South Bank wins ‘Secondary School of the Year’ at Tes Awards 2025!

Oasis Academy South Bank has been named Secondary School of the Year at the prestigious Tes Schools Awards 2025, in recognition of its exceptional commitment to inclusion, academic excellence, and life-changing support for students and families. 

Now in their 17th year, the Tes Awards celebrate the dedication, innovation, and impact of educators and school staff across the UK. This year’s winners were announced at a gala ceremony held at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel, attended by nominees from early years, primary, and secondary settings across both state and independent sectors. 

A panel of expert judges, including school leaders, researchers, and education specialists, selected the winners across 23 categories.  

The Tes panel praised the academy’s soaring GCSE results, now well above national averages, and its growing numbers of Oxbridge applications, rivalling top independent schools. This academic success is matched by a deeply embedded pastoral culture, with the academy achieving the second highest school attendance in Lambeth, supported by consistent behaviour systems and a highly relational approach to student wellbeing.  

The academy’s impact extends well beyond the classroom. Situated within the Oasis Waterloo Hub, Oasis Academy South Bank is a vital part of its local community, students and families access and contribute to a broad network of services including Oasis Farm Waterloo, a community fridge, and local youth sports initiatives like the Blase Ballers football team. This holistic, wrap-around model exemplifies Oasis’s vision for education that builds stronger communities and supports every child to thrive. 

Principal of Oasis Academy South Bank, Anna Richardson said: “This award is an incredible recognition of the hard work, heart, and relentless belief that every member of our school community brings every single day. At Oasis South Bank, we work together to ensure every child, regardless of background, receives the education, support, and care they deserve. We’re honoured and thrilled to be named Secondary School of the Year.” 

The win caps a remarkable year for the academy and is a powerful testament to the values-driven, relational culture encouraged by staff, where educators are supported through coaching and professional development, and students are empowered to grow, achieve, and make a difference in their community.