South Morningside Primary School was recognised in the annual TES Schools Awards 2026 at a ceremony on 19 June at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.
The national awards acknowledge the schools and teachers whose work is transforming outcomes for pupils and setting new standards across education in the UK.
South Morningside Primary School, which has over 500 pupils, was recognised for its innovative work to encourage greater community engagement and inclusivity. The school’s child-led and creative approach to learning was also celebrated, with the school offering outdoor learning to every pupil, a range of sports programmes, interventions and extra-curricular activities for all.
This year, the awards saw a record number of nominations – the highest number since the awards began in 2009.
Winners were selected by a panel of experienced school leaders and education experts across 23 categories spanning leadership, teaching, wellbeing, pupil outcomes and innovation.
South Morningside Primary School Headteacher, Grant Gillies, said: “We are so proud of this achievement which represents the collective drive and hard work of our children, staff, parents and the wider community.
“This award represents all the amazing community partners we have – I would like to thank staff and families for their unending support and commitment to our school.”
Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convenor said: “It is fantastic to see South Morningside Primary School recognised at a national level as primary school of the year.
“It is an incredible achievement which acknowledges the hard work of Mr Gillies and his team. Across all our schools, we want to make sure that every child has the opportunity to get the most of school through an engaging and varied school day – it is brilliant to see South Morningside celebrated as a great example of this.”
