A number of Hull schools have received national recognition for their exceptional outcomes for disadvantaged pupils at the end of the 2024/25 academic year. The city is amongst the top-performing nationally for the achievement of its primary school cohort. However, the recognition isn’t limited to primary.
Pre-school outcomes are also strong in relation to similar areas, demonstrating commitment to closing the disadvantage gap and breaking the link between hardship and restricted life chances as early as possible.
Headteachers have been written to by the Secretary of State for Education, the Rt Hon Bridget Phillipson MP, who has praised the schools for their strong performance as part of the Government’s ‘Opportunity Mission’.
In her letter to headteachers, the Education Secretary praised schools for placing among the strongest performers nationally and recognised the dedication of staff and pupils alike.
She wrote: “Congratulations to you and your team on the excellent outcomes the disadvantaged pupils at your school achieved at the end of the 2024/25 academic year. Your school’s performance places it among the very best nationally, and this is a significant achievement.
“This success reflects the dedication of your staff and the hard work of your pupils. It shows what can be achieved when ambition and commitment come together. Thank you for everything you do to give children the best possible opportunities to succeed.”
The Secretary of State also encouraged schools to share their effective practice and continue to lead improvement across the education system.
She added: “Your school’s achievements demonstrate what is possible, and I hope you will continue to share your experience and best practice with others. Even the strongest schools can go further. We encourage you to lead the way as a system leader – sharing effective practice, championing networks, supporting collaboration, and helping raise standards across the sector.”
The letter highlights opportunities for schools to support improvement more widely, including engaging with regional RISE networks, contributing to professional communities and maintaining a strong focus on outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.
Hull City Council has welcomed the national recognition, which underlines the strength of teaching, leadership and inclusive practice across the city’s schools.
Rachel Wilkes, CEO of Humber Education Trust and co-chair of Hull’s Learning Partnership said: “This national recognition speaks powerfully to our shared mission: improving the lives and life chances of the children and young people we serve.
“Supporting all Hull pupils to succeed is a responsibility we hold with the greatest seriousness and the deepest pride. Every day, our staff bring extraordinary ambition, expertise and care to their work, and these outcomes are a testament to that unwavering dedication.
“Across Humber Education Trust, we work collectively and collaboratively to meet the needs of our diverse communities, ensuring that every child – no matter their background – has the opportunity to thrive.”
Councillor Linda Tock, Hull City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, said: “This national recognition is a huge credit to our schools, their leaders, staff and pupils.
“Supporting disadvantaged children to achieve their very best is a priority for the council, and these results show what can be achieved through high expectations, commitment and strong partnerships.
“I would like to congratulate everyone involved and thank them for the difference they continue to make to the lives of children across Hull.”