A SCHOOL has been shortlisted for an award among some of the most prestigious schools in the country.

Thorpe Hall School, in Wakering Road, Great Wakering, has been shortlisted for the Independent School of the Year award.

The school will be competing for the award against Eton College, Rugby School, Cheltenham Ladies College and St Paul’s for the distinguished accolade.

The judging panel for the Independent Parent Magazine’s Awards had shortlisted 123 schools from across the UK in 18 different categories, including school of the year, best for performing arts and best for healthy eating.

The awards are intended to the reflect the diversity of schools across the country and to celebrate private schools.

Andrew Hampton, headteacher of the Thorpe Hall School, said: “I’m delighted to see the calibre of our provision at Thorpe Hall recognised in a shortlist of schools featuring some of the giants like Eton and Rugby.

“We work to aim higher and keep moving forward as a school, and this is reflected in the many creative and, often courageous, initiatives we have developed for learners from early years through to Key Stage Four.

“All are aimed at inspiring, supporting and engaging our pupils so they can have the best experience of school life and get the most from every day.”

Helen Boyd, Southend Council’s cabinet member for children and learning, was extremely proud to hear of the school’s nomination.

She said: “It is a fantastic achievement and I am very proud they have done so well.

“Of course, the school is an academy, so it is not one of the council’s own, but I am always pleased when any school in the borough performs at such a high level.

“This is brilliant news for the young people who attend Thorpe Hall, and it is good for everybody.”

The winners will be announced in December after judging from a host of experts including headteachers.

For more information about the awards, visit independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk