Oasis has been shortlisted for the ‘Inclusive Trust of the Year’ category in the Tes Schools Awards 2026!

We are proud to share that Oasis has been shortlisted for this year’s Tes Schools Awards in the ‘Inclusive Trust of the Year’ category!

This recognition reflects what sits at the heart of our mission: a truly inclusive, purposeful and relational education that achieves great outcomes and enhances young people's lives. Across all 56 of our academies, we are committed to ensuring every student belongs, is able to explore their purpose, and is equipped with the knowledge, skills and experiences to flourish.

Our shortlisting celebrates the depth of our trust-wide approach to inclusion. We measure success holistically - combining academic outcomes with wellbeing, belonging, safety and engagement. Our relational model, grounded in neuroscience, attachment theory and trauma-informed practice, ensures every child is known, supported and able to thrive.

Suzanne Gill, Principal of Oasis Academy Warndon and National Lead for Student Inclusion (Primary), said:

“Being shortlisted for Inclusive Trust of the Year is a powerful affirmation of what inclusion truly means at Oasis. For us, inclusion is not a single strategy or programme – it is a way of being. Across our 56 academies, the Oasis Way ensures we are committed to knowing every child well, building strong relationships, and creating environments where all pupils feel safe, valued and able to flourish. 

Our holistic approach to the Oasis Way is rooted in relational practice, trauma‑informed understanding and high expectations, ensures that academic success goes hand‑in‑hand with wellbeing, belonging and purpose. This recognition belongs to our remarkable staff, our pupils, and the families and communities we serve, who bring our inclusive vision to life every day.”

Programmes such as Oasis Encounter, which has led to significant reduction in persistent absence for participating pupils, alongside our trust‑wide Oasis Way framework and leadership development programmes, demonstrate how inclusivity is woven into daily practice. Being shortlisted for 'Inclusive Trust of the Year' is a testament to the remarkable people across Oasis, and to the families and communities who make this vision a lived reality every day.

The strength of this work can also be seen at academy level. Oasis Academy Hadley has also been shortlisted in this year’s Tes Schools Awards for both ‘Inclusive School of the Year’ and ‘Excellence in Pupil Enrichment’, recognising the academy’s deeply embedded culture of inclusion, exceptional pupil support and commitment to broad, enriching experiences for every child.

The Tes Schools Awards celebrate the UK's most inspiring teachers and schools from both state and independent sectors. Since 2009, they have recognised excellence across education, bringing together schools from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in one inclusive national event.

This year's awards feature 23 categories spanning all areas of school life, from leadership and teaching to pupil outcomes and wellbeing. Two new categories have been introduced for 2026 - Teacher Development of the Year and Pupil Enrichment School of the Year - reflecting the growing importance of staff development and a well-rounded student experience.

The shortlist was selected by a panel of expert judges, including experienced school leaders and education specialists. This year's awards are supported by Cloud Technology Partner, Amazon Web Services, which sponsors the 'Best Use of Technology' category.

Rod Williams, CEO of Tes, commented: 

“This year’s shortlist showcases the exceptional standard of entries across the Tes Schools Awards, reflecting the breadth of impact being delivered in UK education. Each category highlights schools and individuals who are not only driving meaningful change within their own settings, but also setting a benchmark for the wider sector. 

“The Tes Schools Awards are designed to recognise and elevate this work, celebrating those making a measurable difference to pupils, staff and communities across the UK – and with a record number of nominations received this year, it clearly reinforces the strength and impact being delivered across the UK education sector.”

This year’s awards will be hosted by award-winning comedian, writer and presenter Katherine Ryan, with winners announced at a gala ceremony on 19th June at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.