Symon Cooke, Headteacher of The Avenue School, collected the School of the Year Award from Chris Tarrant, recognising the school’s exceptional support for children and young people with additional needs.

Based in Tilehurst, The Avenue Special Needs Academy is a day special school for boys and girls aged two to 19 with complex special educational needs. Visitors to the school are immediately struck by its warmth, compassion and dedication. Headteacher Symon Cooke was praised for his leadership and the care he shows every child, while staff across the school were recognised for consistently putting pupils’ needs first.

The staff do far more than provide education. They also support each child’s individual care needs, recognising that every pupil is different and deserves an approach tailored to them.

One nomination described the classrooms as magical places, full of love and happiness.

Perhaps one of the most touching nominations came from a former pupil, who wrote: “I would like to nominate The Avenue School because it’s the best school ever. They always listen to what I need, no matter how big or small it is.”

The pupil added: “I really love the school, even with my highs and lows.”

These heartfelt words perfectly capture the difference the school makes to the lives of its pupils and their families.

See all this year’s winners