Chiswick School shortlisted for prestigious national teaching award

“A testament to the unwavering commitment of our staff, students, and families” – Head teacher Laura Ellener

Chiswick School has been shortlisted for a prestigious 2025 Pearson National Teaching Award. The annual awards celebrate ‘the impact of educators and teaching communities across the UK,’ and have previously recognised the school’s head of Music, Zac Moxon, with the award for Outstanding New Teacher of the Year in 2023, and their head of Performing Arts, Tommy Robinson for his “outstanding work” in 2022.

READ ALSO: Chiswick School teacher wins gold at prestigious National Teaching Awards

READ ALSO: Chiswick School teacher wins prestigious teaching award

This time it is the whole school which is up for an award. The ‘Whole School Team’, are now in the running for the ‘Secondary School of the Year – Making a Difference’ award in what is considered to be the Oscars of the teaching profession.

Image: Head teacher Laura Ellener

It is a “testament to the unwavering commitment of our staff, students, and families,” says the school’s head teacher Laura Ellener.

Since she took over in January 2019 she has made it her mission to turn the school around, from a school which faced significant challenges, to one which is well-respected and recognised as being ambitious for all their students.

READ ALSO: Interview with Laura Ellener, headteacher of Chiswick School, 2019

The school is ‘delighted’ to have been shortlisted:

‘Chiswick has undergone a remarkable resurgence. Today, it stands as a model of inclusive excellence, with student achievement soaring well above national averages and sixth form progress ranked in the top 3% across the UK.

‘At the core of this transformation? A bold commitment to inclusion, exceptional teaching, and a deeply rooted partnership with the community.  Students from all backgrounds—including those with SEND and those supported by the pupil premium—are now thriving, thanks to a dynamic and inclusive curriculum, high expectations for behaviour, and outstanding pastoral care.’

The school’s opinion of itself is borne out by its recent Ofsted assessments and other external evaluations, such as the national ranking of Sixth Form achievements and the Pearson awards.

READ ALSO: Chiswick School receives a glowing report from Ofsted

READ ALSO: Chiswick School achieves outstanding national ranking for A Level progress

‘In the recent Ofsted inspection 96% parents stated they would recommend the school, while staff morale is high, with 99% of all staff expressing pride in their roles. Enrolment has surged, with first-choice applications rising. This year, Chiswick awarded 10 music scholarships to Year 6 students from low-income households, highlighting its commitment to The Arts and opportunity.’

The school prides itself on being a creative and happy place, driven by an ambition that children enjoy their school experience.

‘Beyond the classroom, Chiswick School maintains a strong presence within the wider community. Initiatives such as a self-funded summer school, a community choir, and a variety of student-led volunteering and enrichment programmes reflect the school’s commitment to supporting both its students and the local area.

‘Innovative partnerships and staff collaboration aim to support local schools and families, with a focus on inclusion, wellbeing, and opportunity.’

“We are proud to be part of a community that believes in every child’s potential,” said Laura. “Chiswick School extends heartfelt thanks to its community for their continued support as it continues to strive for excellence and equity in education.”

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