FTT National School Attendance Award

South Wigston High School recognised among England’s most improved secondary schools for attendance

South Wigston High School is celebrating national recognition after receiving a National School Attendance Award from FFT for the 2025/26 academic year, placing the school in the top 10% of most improved FFT secondary schools in England.

FFT is an independent education data provider that collects daily attendance figures from more than 10,000 schools nationally, enabling schools to monitor and compare attendance over time. While many attendance awards recognise schools with the highest attendance rates, this award celebrates those making the greatest improvements. It places South Wigston High School among the leading secondary schools nationally for improving attendance.

Good attendance is fundamental to every learner’s success. Every day in school brings opportunities to learn, develop friendships, build confidence and access the support needed to thrive. Over time, these opportunities make a significant difference. It is particularly encouraging that this national recognition comes in the same year that South Wigston High School has also celebrated improved GCSE outcomes, reflecting the positive direction of travel across the school.

This achievement reflects a genuine team effort. Learners have demonstrated increasing commitment to their education, families have worked in partnership with the school, and colleagues have continued to create a welcoming, supportive and purposeful environment where every learner is encouraged to succeed.

During its inspection in June 2026, Ofsted recognised that “teachers use positive relationships with pupils to ensure that they are ready to learn.” This latest award provides further recognition of the difference that these relationships, alongside high expectations and a shared commitment to improvement, are making every day.

Sara Fletcher, Principal, said:

“We are incredibly proud to receive this national recognition. Improving attendance has been a real team effort, and this award belongs to our learners, their families and our colleagues, who have worked together with such determination.

“Every day in school matters, and we know the difference that regular attendance makes to a young person’s opportunities, experiences and achievements. This award is another important milestone in our school’s improvement journey, but our ambition remains the same: to keep building on this progress and ensure that every learner has the opportunity to thrive.”

This latest award adds to a growing list of national recognition for South Wigston High School, including the IQM Centre of Excellence, Parent Friendly School Award, School Impact Award 2025/26 and Challenge Partners Area of Excellence recognition for Trauma-Informed Practice.

These achievements follow the school's positive Ofsted inspection in June 2026, which recognised “a positive environment underpinned by a culture of care and respectful relationships.” Together, they reflect the significant progress being made across the school and the shared ambition of learners, families and colleagues to make South Wigston High School a place where every learner can thrive.