Oldham Academy North wins national silver award for transforming lives

E-ACT The Oldham Academy North (TOAN) has been nationally recognised with a Silver Award for Making a Difference - Secondary School of the Year at this year’s Pearson National Teaching Awards.

Chosen from thousands of nominations across the UK, TOAN is now in the running for the prestigious Gold Award, to be announced later this year at a special ceremony in London and featured on BBC One’s The One Show.

This award follows a recent Ofsted inspection in which inspectors praised TOAN’s “unrelenting pursuit of excellence”, “exemplary behaviour”, and a culture built on respect, ambition, and inclusion.

Pupils were found to feel safe, motivated, and proud to belong - qualities that reflect the school’s positive culture  and commitment to outstanding education.

As part of the E-ACT family, TOAN has broken down barriers and raised aspirations, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

With a Progress 8 score of 0.37 - the highest among non-selective schools in Oldham and well above the local average of 0.04 - TOAN continues to deliver outcomes that exceed expectations.

Andrea Atkinson, education director at E-ACT, said: “This is a proud moment for the entire TOAN community.

"The Silver Award is national recognition of the exceptional work taking place every day- from calm, focused classrooms to the culture of respect and ambition.

"Ofsted rightly recognised the sense of belonging and aspiration at TOAN, and this award reinforces that.

"Thank you to our dedicated staff, incredible students, supportive families, and everyone - past and present - who has shaped this journey.”

TOAN is one of only 93 recipients of a Silver Award across 16 categories this year, selected for making a lasting impact on students, families, and the wider community.

This celebration coincides with National Thank a Teacher Day this week, which pays tribute to the outstanding contributions of educators across the UK.

Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said: “The dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable.

"Their influence extends well beyond the classroom – offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come.

"That’s why National Thank a Teacher Day is an important opportunity to pause and celebrate all that they do.

“I’m also delighted to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners.

"Your passion and commitment to shaping the next generation is extraordinary.

"Thank you for the difference you make every single day.”

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, said: “Every day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation.

"Today, we proudly recognise those making an extraordinary impact.

"Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession, and we’re thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements. 

"Congratulations to all of this year’s Silver winners!”

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: "On Thank a Teacher Day, I want to celebrate the remarkable professionals who are the backbone of our education system.

"Brilliant teachers make the single biggest difference to a child’s education.

“I've experienced first-hand how a great teacher can make all the difference.

"Teachers don't just deliver lessons – they transform lives, inspire curiosity, and build the confidence our children need to succeed.

"For this incredible commitment to our nation's future, we owe our teachers our deepest gratitude."

Joshua Cronin, Education Partnerships Director at Step into Teaching, sponsor of The Award for Making a Difference – Secondary School, added: “Congratulations to this year’s Silver Award winners for The Award for Making a Difference – Secondary School of the Year.

"Your commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and transformative environment has had a profound impact on your students and wider community.

"This recognition celebrates the real change you’ve made - thank you for making a difference.”

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