Cardinal Pole Catholic School in Homerton was awarded the School of the Year 2024 title at the National Schools Awards on December 3.  

The ceremony took place at the House of Lords. 

The Hackney secondary school was the only school in London shortlisted for the award and is no stranger to success, with previous nominations for the TES Secondary School of the Year award in 2023 and 2024. 

Head pupils Shiphrah, Oyinlola, and Tommy said: “Cardinal Pole is more than a school; it’s a family where everyone is supported to achieve their best.”

Executive headteacher Adam Hall said: “I would like to personally thank everyone who makes our school such a special place, from our students and their families to our dedicated staff, who work tirelessly to ensure each student has the opportunity to soar.

“This award is a testament to the collective effort of our community, and we remain focused on continuing to deliver an outstanding education for all our students.”

Head of school Alex O’Donoghue said: “Every member of Cardinal Pole: students, staff, and families has contributed to making our school an outstanding place of learning and growth.”

The prestigious awards show takes place annually to reward Educators, Schools and Academy Trusts for their work across the education sector.

The School of the Year category recognises institutions that have significantly improved pupil results, overcome challenges or demonstrated exceptional dedication to their communities.  

Cardinal Pole Catholic School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted and achieves GCSE results in the top ten percent in the country. 

The other nominees for the School of the Year category were Avon Park School in Rugby, Red Oak Primary School in Lowestoft, Masefield Primary School in Bolton and Phoenix Bay School in Newton Abbot.