James Miles for Science, Niamh McGrath for Humanities and Katie Merson for English were entered to represent The Harefield Academy in the Awards. They had to submit an essay in answer to a question relevant to their subject area.

 

Lynn Gadd, Principal, says: "We're delighted that James, Niamh and Katie have progressed through to the longlist. This is a prestigious new educational awards scheme and we're thrilled that The Harefield Academy will be represented. We're keeping our fingers crossed that they will reach the shortlist next month, but nevertheless this is a brilliant achievement."

 

 

English representative and Head Girl, Katie Merson says: "It was a challenging question and I worked hard on my essay so I'm pleased the awards panel liked it. I'm happy to be representing The Academy in this exciting new competition."

 

The Academy Excellence Awards is a brand new initiative to celebrate academic achievement by students at Academies. There are five subject categories in this pilot year – English, Humanities, Mathematics, Science and Technology – and students were asked to answer an essay question set by experts at the University of Nottingham. In addition there will be a team award for students who produce the best group project.

 

The Awards aim to provide a flagship initiative for the whole Academies' movement and are backed by an impressive steering group including Andrew Adonis, Director of the Institute of Government and former Secretary of State for Transport and Minister for Schools; Anthony McClaran, former Chief Executive of UCAS and now QAA; Kate Hobhouse, Chairman of Fortnum and Mason; and Barbara Harrison, independent Education Advisor and former Chief Executive of the Girls' Day School Trust.

 

The shortlist of five students per subject category will be announced on 6 June. Shortlisted students will be invited to represent their Academy at an Inspiration Day and Awards Dinner on 6 July at the University of Nottingham.

 

For more information, visit www.academyexcellenceawards.co.uk.