We’re proud to share that REAch2 Academy Trust has been shortlisted for: “Trust of the Year – 10 schools or more” at the Tes Schools Awards 2025, a national celebration often described as the “Oscars of education.”
This recognition is a powerful moment for our Trust and everyone within it. As the UK’s largest primary-only academy trust, REAch2 supports over 20,000 pupils and more than 3,000 staff across 62 schools – many in the country’s most disadvantaged communities. When we began, just 8% of our schools were rated Good or Outstanding. Today, 97% have achieved that standard.
But for us, it’s never just been about Ofsted ratings. Our work is about social justice, removing barriers, nurturing potential, and changing lives. Through our “Always Aiming Higher” strategy, we’ve invested in early reading, enhanced SEND provision, embedded sustainability into our schools, and empowered pupils through initiatives like 11 Before 11 and the National Pupil Parliament.
What Makes Us Different?
REAch2 schools are united by a culture of collaboration and excellence, not uniformity. Our Great Reading Strategy has driven improvements in phonics and reading, with Year 1 phonics results increasing by 5%, five times the national average.
We’ve also made sustainability a core value. In partnership with the Natural History Museum and Cambridge University, our Climate Change Education curriculum is helping pupils understand and take action on environmental issues.
Meanwhile, our SCITT programme, REAchTeach, is building the next generation of great primary teachers, trained by experts, for future classrooms.
The People Behind the Progress
From Early Career Teachers to Headteachers (74% promoted internally), our staff are the heartbeat of the Trust. A recent survey found 93% of staff are proud to work for REAch2, a figure we’re especially proud of.
This shortlisting is a testament to their passion, talent, and dedication. As one Teaching Assistant shared, “In my 34 years of working life, I’ve never experienced anything like REAch2. Recognition and wellbeing are part of our everyday culture.”
Winners will be announced on Friday 20 June at the Tes Schools Awards Gala in London. No matter the outcome, we are incredibly proud of the journey we’ve been on – and even more excited about where we’re going.
Together, we’re not just improving schools.
We’re transforming lives.
