The Grange School shortlisted for EducationInvestor awards
The Grange School, Hartford is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted for the EducationInvestor Awards 2026 in the category of Independent School Operator of the Year.
The EducationInvestor Awards recognise excellence and innovation across the education sector, celebrating institutions that have delivered exceptional outcomes for learners and demonstrated strong leadership, governance and strategic ambition. This national recognition places The Grange among a select group of leading independent education providers in the UK and internationally.
The 2024–25 academic year was one of the strongest in the School’s history. Academic outcomes at both GCSE and A level significantly exceeded national benchmarks, with 25% of GCSE entries awarded grade 9, 47% graded 8 or 9, and 25% of A level entries achieving A*. The School received the ALPS Diamond Award for GCSE, placing its value-added in the top 1% nationally, and ALPS Platinum at A level.
The Grange is equally recognised for the quality and ambition of its extracurricular provision. The performing arts programme is a standout strength, with recent productions including Evita!, The Wind in the Willows, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and, most recently, SIX, alongside large-scale orchestral and choral performances such as The Snowman. Music is thriving, with over 250 pupils completing ABRSM examinations and performances at prestigious venues including Bridgewater Hall.
Sporting provision is equally strong, combining breadth of participation with national level success. Pupils have competed in major national competitions across rugby, football, netball, cricket, tennis and rowing, including representation at the Henley Royal Regatta and the British Indoor Rowing Championships, and multiple regional and national titles across Junior and Senior School teams.
Outdoor education plays a central role in pupil development, with residentials, international trips and very high engagement in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, supporting leadership, resilience and independence.
As a registered charity, The Grange is committed to widening access and contributing positively to society through bursaries, regional STEM outreach, and long-standing partnerships in The Gambia and Peru, embedding service and global citizenship throughout school life.
Speaking on the announcement, Dr Lorraine Earps, Head of The Grange School, said:
“This shortlisting reflects the dedication of our staff, the ambition of our pupils, and the strength of our school community. The breadth and ambition of a Grange education encompasses academic excellence, creativity, character, service and opportunity, underpinned by strong governance and leadership. We are proud of what our pupils and staff achieve together.”
The winners will be announced at the EducationInvestor Awards ceremony later this year.