Last week, colleagues from across Carlton Academy Trust attend the prestigious 2026 TES Schools Awards, celebrating some of the very best schools, leaders and education professionals in the country. We were delighted to see two of our primary schools shortlisted across three categories, with their achievements recognised on a national stage.
Thorpe Primary School and Marshfield Primary School were shortlisted across three highly competitive categories, highlighting the exceptional work taking place across the Trust.
Thorpe Primary School, led by Headteacher Paul Mennell and his team, was named a finalist for Primary School of the Year, recognising the school’s commitment to delivering outstanding educational experiences and outcomes for its pupils.
Meanwhile, Marshfield Primary School’s Early Years team were shortlisted for EYFS Team of the Year, reflecting the dedication and expertise that have helped create an exceptional start to education for the school’s youngest learners.
Adding to the celebrations, Zara Kearns, Head of School at Marshfield Primary School, was shortlisted for Headteacher of the Year and received a Highly Commended recognition from the TES judges.
The recognition follows a remarkable period of success at Marshfield under Zara’s leadership. The school has secured an Outstanding judgement in all areas from Ofsted, achieved some of the strongest Key Stage 2 attainment outcomes both locally and nationally, and established itself as the primary school of choice for families in the local community.
Although the schools did not take home an award on the night, being shortlisted among the very best schools, teams and leaders from across the country is a significant achievement and a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of staff.
Carlton Academy Trust Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Kneeshaw MBE, said:
“We are incredibly proud of Paul, Zara and their teams for this well-deserved national recognition. To be shortlisted for TES Schools Awards is an achievement in itself, reflecting the outstanding education and opportunities our colleagues provide for children every day”.
Zara’s Highly Commended recognition is particularly special and highlights the transformational impact of his leadership at Marshfield. These achievements showcase the talent, ambition and commitment that exist across our Trust, and we congratulate everyone involved.
The Trust extends its congratulations to all colleagues recognised and thanks them for their continued commitment to ensuring every child receives the highest quality education.
Congratulations to everyone involved on this fantastic achievement.
That’s great and all, and we commend you for pushing through with it. Unfortunately we no longer offer support for IE; it hasn’t received a major update since 2015 and Microsoft are dropping support for it later in the year.
If you’re using Windows 10 and want to stick with a built in browser, please consider switching to Edge. Or, if you really want to enjoy the internet properly we strongly recommend downloading Google Chrome here.