Bronte Girls’ Secondary Academy and Feversham Girls’ Secondary Academy have been formally recognised by the Secretary of State for delivering exceptional outcomes for disadvantaged pupils – a moment of pride not just for the schools, but for the communities they serve.
Both academies, part of the iExel Education Trust, received letters from Bridget Phillipson, congratulating staff and students on their outstanding performance during the 2024/25 academic year.
Their results place them among the highest-performing schools in the country for disadvantaged learners.
In her message, Phillipson praised the dedication of teachers, the ambition of pupils and the culture of high expectations that underpins success in both schools.
She also encouraged leaders to share their effective practice nationally and to play a leading role in school improvement through collaboration, professional networks and the Department for Education’s Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence programme.
Dr Tim Coulson, Director General for the Department for Education’s Regions Group, confirmed that both academies were included in a select group of schools within the Trust singled out for their impact.
For many families across Bradford, this recognition carries particular weight.
Disadvantaged pupils often face structural barriers – from financial pressures to limited access to enrichment opportunities – yet these schools have demonstrated that background does not determine destiny.
Professor Khurshid Khan, CEO of iExel Education Trust, said the achievement reflects “years of dedication, high expectations and an unwavering belief that every young person, whatever their background, deserves the opportunity to succeed.”
He added: “These excellent achievements reflect the strength of our communities, the ambition of our pupils and the relentless commitment of our colleagues across the Trust.”
At a time when conversations around educational inequality continue to dominate national debate, Bronte Girls’ and Feversham Girls’ are offering something powerful – proof that sustained investment in people, purpose and partnership delivers real change.
The Trust says it remains committed to sustaining excellence for disadvantaged pupils while working closely with regional partners to raise standards for all through engagement with professional communities and cross-sector collaboration.
For the young women walking through those school gates each morning, this is more than a letter from Westminster. It is affirmation that their hard work matters – and that no matter their starting point, their future can be bright.
