Featuring: Private Education Awards 2026
Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Phone: 01283 365204 Website: lux-life.digital Private Education Awards 2026 No information contained on or in this website constitutes investment advice or an offer to invest or to provide management services and is subject to correction, completion and amendment without notice. Neither AI nor any of its associated entities are authorised to give financial advice of any nature nor are they regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Prior to making any investment, AI recommends that any prospective investor should consult with its own investment, accounting, legal and tax advisers to evaluate independently the risks, consequences and suitability of that investment. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. LUXlife Magazine is delighted to announce the launch of the Private Education Awards 2026, marking the fifth consecutive year of celebrating excellence within one of the most influential sectors shaping our global future. Now firmly established as one of LUXlife’s most sought-after and widely followed award programmes, the Private Education Awards return with more excitement, ambition, and industry recognition than ever before. As education continues to evolve at a remarkable pace, this programme shines a spotlight on the schools, tutors, academies, consultants, and education providers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to student success. Whether you specialise in academic enrichment, creative development, online learning, specialist coaching, or bespoke educational pathways, the 2026 awards offer a platform to showcase the outstanding work driving progress in private education.
4. Queen’s Online School: Most Engaging Online School 2026 & Student Support & Wellbeing Excellence Award 2026 6. EDU International Business Institute: Leading Hybrid Education & Internship Facilitation Provider 2026 8. Marsden Park Anglican College: Faith-Based College of the Year 2026 – New South Wales 9. St Bernard’s Preparatory School: Best Catholic Preparatory School 2026 – Berkshire 10. Leweston School: Best Co-Educational Day & Boarding School 2026 – Dorset 11. Bromley High School GDST: Independent School of the Year 2026 – UK & Excellence in Wellbeing Support & Education 2026 12. Amnuay Silpa School: Best Private School Education NPO 2026 – Thailand & Student Wellbeing Excellence Award 2026 13. Marlborough House Vinehall School: Most Child- Centred Prep School 2026 – South East England 14. Tonbridge School: Independent Boys' Boarding School of the Year 2026 UK 15. Notting Hill Prep: Most Innovative Preparatory School 2026 – England 16. d’Overbroeck’s: Leading Co-Educational Day & Boarding School 2026 – Oxfordshire & Pioneer of Individuality in Academic Excellence 2026 – UK 17. Mount House School: Most Empowering Education Environment 2026 – London & Holistic Student Development Excellence Award 2026 18. OIC Brighton: Most Enriching International College 2026 – South East England & Excellence in Tailored Student Development 2026 19. Cumbres International School Saltillo: Best Values-Driven STEM Education School 2026 – Mexico & Holistic Education Innovation Award 2026 20. Windlesham House School: Prep School of the Year 2026 – South East England 21. Pacific Christian School: Faith-Based K-12 Independent School of the Year 2026 – California 22. Sunray Academy of Canada: Best Independent Private School 2026 – Toronto Contents
4 | LUXlife Magazine erving families across the UK and around the world, Queen’s Online School delivers high-quality teaching, strong pastoral care, and an inclusive community where every child is empowered to thrive. The purpose behind Queen’s, which was established last year, is to provide new opportunities and reconsider what an outstanding online education looks like. Its live lessons are of the highest quality, and its focus on keeping education affordable makes them accessible to children of all backgrounds. All of these lessons have been expertly designed specifically for online learning, and are taught exclusively by fully qualified UK teachers. This blend of a proven model for education and innovative delivery by experienced staff sees every lesson Queen’s teaches brought to life, enhancing engagement and understanding. With this teaching also encompassing International GCSEs and A-Levels, students anywhere in the world can access a British education, which is widely considered to be one of the finest. Guided by its exceptional teaching, Queen’s is aware that happy kids perform better than miserable ones. Charlie explained: “Queen’s is more than just a school – it is a whole‑child care package designed to improve the life chances, wellbeing, and happiness of every student we serve.” The theme of transforming lives is a common one across this UK online school, and Queen’s looks to do this primarily by inspiring curiosity, Most Engaging Online School 2026 & Student Support & Wellbeing Excellence Award 2026 A full-time online school that will not break the bank, Queen’s Online School is an award-winning British education provider serving key stage 2 (ages 7–11) through to key stage 5 (ages 16–18). Delivering the modern British curriculum complete with personalised support, behind Queen’s Online School is one of the oldest, most trusted names in online education: the Cambridge Online Education Group. For more on the engaging online school that is looking to redefine digital education in the UK and beyond, we spoke with Charlie Leggat, its headteacher. enabling every student to achieve their very best, and ensuring that they all feel a deep sense of belonging to their school community. “We intentionally build a warm, inclusive community where students feel seen, valued, and connected – even across continents.” To make sure that Queen’s’ culture of wellbeing, happiness, and personal growth is accessible to every student, it is embedded across the organisation, and upheld in everything from its guiding principle – ‘Inspire, Achieve, Belong’ – to the Mindful Milestones wellbeing model, hiring practices, safeguarding measures, and teacher training this UK online school carries out. This is the foundation of an approach to online learning where real connection, specialist expertise, and consistent, quality live teaching are favoured. With many online providers relying heavily on pre-recorded content or large, impersonal classes, Queen’s delivery of live online lessons, daily tutor check-ins, and wellbeing support across its communitycentred online experience immediately make it the best option for its students and their parents. Charlie told us: “Families regularly move to Queen’s from other online schools because their children were isolated, disengaged, or under‑supported. They stay because their children flourish – academically, socially, and emotionally.” A lot of this can be attributed to the benefits of online schooling, something which is only now starting to gain recognition as a viable alternative to a traditional, in-person education. This is not the kind of forced, impromptu online learning students were delivered during the COVID-19 lockdowns, and schools like Queen’s today provide the same rigorous curriculum as standard schools, with the benefit of added flexibility. This translates into self-paced support learning resource options and an environment tailored to students’ individual learning styles. Led by the more than 20 years of experience its model has in online education, Queen’s’ process remains deeply rooted in live, interactive teaching; qualified, UK-trained educators; small class sizes; individual support; mentorship; and innovation. The team are pioneers in this space, and their commitment to delivering a safe, academically rigorous, and supportive environment where students are happy and can thrive S
Private Education Awards 2026 | 5 is guiding them through the final stages of this academic year and well into the next. Plans for the 2026/2027 academic year involve building on the success that has resulted in Queen’s being recognised as the Most Engaging Online School 2026 and with our Student Support & Wellbeing Excellence Award 2026. Specifically, it is aiming to achieve the strongest Ofsted report of any online school, and is preparing for its latest inspection with the clear intention of setting the benchmark for the entire online education sector. “Queen’s Online School will continue to lead the way in redefining what outstanding online education looks like, always guided by our core values: Inspire, Achieve, Belong.” Beginning an online education with Queen’s is simple, and its care package can be started in less than 24 hours. The process begins with a free discovery call, during which one of its friendly learning advisors will explain all of the available courses, answer any questions, and come to understand a child’s unique needs. After the call, the team set about designing a custom learning pathway comprising subjects, pace, and schedule, something it tailors for students from year three through to sixth form. From here, it is as simple as attending Queen’s’ engaging live classes with its UK-qualified teachings, as well as accessing any lesson recordings 24/7 and receiving full support from its pastoral team whenever this is needed. It is during these three easy steps that the seeds for a truly rewarding education are planted, and with the added bonus of flexibility to boot, this student-centred provision is transforming education for children worldwide. Finally, reflecting on Queen’s Online School’s recognition in our Private Education Awards 2026, Charlie commented: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Private Education Awards at LUXlife for highlighting the diverse and high‑quality educational options available to families. Your recognition helps raise awareness of the innovative, student‑centred provision that is transforming opportunities for children around the world, and we are grateful to be included in this important celebration of excellence.” More on this affordable online school, which will refund the difference if a student or parent finds the same course cheaper elsewhere, and its online GCSE and A-Level courses can be found below. Contact: Charlie Leggat Company: Queen’s Online School Web Address: https://queensonlineschool.com/
Jun22596 6 | LUXlife Magazine EDU International Business Institute exists to develop innovative and accessible education solutions and connect talent with the best professional opportunities. Since being founded in 2021, the company has supported over 5,000 students from across more than 30 countries worldwide, all through a digital platform that sits at the intersection of technology, educational excellence, and personalised support. Nicholas explained: “Our organisation primarily supports students seeking access to professional experience opportunities through structured educational programmes, allowing them to complete internships in France and internationally within a compliant educational framework. Over the past few years, we have supported thousands of students from diverse international backgrounds by helping simplify access to internship opportunities, professional experience, and employabilityfocused education.” The overarching mission here is to bridge the gap between education and the professional world, something that feels bigger than ever in today’s corporate landscape. Students are struggling to gain practical experience, and yet employers are increasingly expecting them to have it, with many even favouring it over qualifications. This creates barriers for the next generation as they look to enter the workforce, and it is these which Nicholas and the team here are working tirelessly to help them overcome. “Our top priority is employability. We believe education should create tangible career outcomes, confidence, and access to real professional experience.” To this end, the long-term vision of EDU is to become one of the leading international education and student career acceleration platforms in the world, dedicated to making professional experience and employability more accessible and beneficial for students. The team here are certain that the future of education is increasingly practical, digital, and connected, as academic theory and strong grades are no longer sufficient in today’s job market, and students need practical experience to even launch a career. Leading Hybrid Education & Internship Facilitation Provider 2026 Based in Dubai, EDU International Business Institute is a private online training organisation created to support the integration of students into the professional sector. Its approach combines flexible and structured e-learning training with a recognised internship agreement to work in industry. Supporting this are collaborations with companies and schools, predominantly in France but also internationally. Nicolas Ballaz, the founder and managing director of EDU, was on hand for more. Recognising the importance of what they do, every member of EDU knows that their work has a direct impact on the professional future of a student and the opportunities afforded to them. Setting the team apart is this motivation and strong sense of purpose, which drives a culture grounded in achieving results. This sees them go beyond sourcing internships to integrate students into its dynamic community, helping them to build their network. Again, this is something education traditionally overlooks. Last but certainly not least, EDU’s international internship solutions take the form of distance learning courses in key sectors of interest. This e-learning covers everything from marketing to HR, international law, finance, computing, journalism, fashion, real estate, and more. 200 hours of training is offered in total, and this can be completed through an internship with one of the organisation’s partners across France and beyond. The balance of specific theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience increases the chance of securing a good job. One of the best things about registering with EDU it just charges one fixed fee, with no extra costs. This fee of €299 includes access to its ten e-learning courses and their 200 hours of training content, as well as the internship agreement, which is available at any time and can last for up to six months. Affordability is something that many students are forced to prioritise, so delivering career-enhancing value without forcing them to break the bank makes this student career acceleration platform the top choice for thousands of students. Underpinning EDU’s status as the go-to internship agreement provider in France and much further afield is its remarkable score of 9.8/10 on the Society of Guaranteed Reviews website. Of the 358 reviews it boasts, 351 are positive, with hundreds and hundreds of these being five stars. They praise the speed, efficiency, and service quality of the organisation, especially when it comes to students starting their internships. This is often a scary time for students, so knowing the process will be handled smoothly is a huge weight off their shoulders. Beyond just acquiring these internships, students benefit from the calibre of the experience they are provided, with world-leading organisations such as Nestlé, Estée Lauder, PWC, Chloé, and RITUALS
Private Education Awards 2026 | 7 having all welcomed students on EDU-led internships over the years. Gaining experience in any industry or workplace is one thing, but to be able to do it with companies that are paving the way and developing the future of the professional sector on a global level is another thing altogether, and something that students truly cherish. All of this adds up to something much more than an institute, and EDU today stands as a vibrant, multicultural community that educates, inspires, and connects talent from all over the world, all whilst meeting the needs of students, employers, and society as a whole in a world that is changing faster than at any point in history. Built around the fundamental belief that students should have easier access to internships and career opportunities, regardless of their background or location, the value EDU International Business Institute delivers in this sector comes from a recognition that education providers must evolve alongside the realities of the modern job market. Its career-focused education programmes are helping employability and professional experience become attainable, making this student career acceleration platform fitting of recognition. In closing, Nick captured the essence of EDU, remarking: “Our organisation was built around the idea that students should have easier access to internships and career opportunities, regardless of background or location. We also believe education providers must evolve alongside the realities of the modern job market by combining flexibility, technology, international accessibility, and practical outcomes.” Expanding experience through the power of internships, more on EDU’s international internship solutions can be found at the link below. Contact: Nicolas Ballaz Company: EDU International Business Institute Web Address: https://www.edu-business-institute.com/
8 | LUXlife Magazine Faith-Based College of the Year 2026 – New South Wales Marsden Park Anglican College (MPAC) is part of the Anglican Schools Corporation and sits proudly within a tradition of growing schools extending back more than 600 years. In Australia specifically, the last 200 years have seen these schools become increasingly significant, supporting children with a focus on inclusivity, community, service, and Christ-centred learning. MPAC upholds these principles, offering an affordable, faith-based education to a developing part of Sydney. Principal Darren Cox caught up with us for more on this innovative, vibrant, and dynamic community. Reflecting the vision of the Anglican Schools Corporation, which is to balance quality, affordability, and the holistic values of faith education, Marsden Park Anglican College believes schools should be joyous, purposefilled environments that people love coming to, and where excellence is strived for in everything. The Christian learning community MPAC has created stems from this belief, with its identity rooted in helping everyone to flourish and realise their God-given potential through an education shaped by the Bible. “Let no one think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12, MPAC’s School Verse Day to day, the school looks to positively impact the world and empower individuals to do the same. This may start with a love of Christ, but this is just the beginning, with MAPC also promoting a love of life, a love of learning, and a love for others. Principal Darren Cox embodies all of this himself, and is a passionate educational leader widely recognised for transforming school culture through a blend of dynamic teaching and learning practices, student-led initiatives, and engagement with the community. With its principal standing proudly as one of Australia’s most influential educators, it is unsurprising to learn that MAPC is as committed to its staff as it is to its students, and their personal and professional development is something it invests in heavily, through initiatives like coaching, team workshops, and tailored mentoring. Darren explained: “Through leadership pathways, collaborative learning opportunities, and a culture of reflective practice, we ensure that all staff feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.” The quality, high-performing staff at the heart of MPAC have even made it a five-star employer of choice, and the calibre of teaching directly impacts the positive culture that defines the school, which is a place where playfulness and professionalism meet. Hallmarks of this culture include a clear student voice and an openness to explore new initiatives and opportunities. Many of these opportunities exist outside of the excellent classroom education MPAC delivers, with its co-curricular programme being a clear highlight. From creative and performing arts to sporting activities, public-speaking competitions, and a myriad of lunch clubs, there are a range of things for students to get involved in – all bolstered by the 17 acres of diverse learning space that this location has at its disposal. All of this only adds to the innovative, vibrant, and dynamic nature of MPAC, which sees itself as not only having rules, but also a vision for the lives of its students. It is the clarity of both the vision itself and the delivery of it that is truly staggering, especially since the College is only actually in its second year of independence. Initially established as a campus of Richard Johnson Anglican School in 2016, the strong growth and introduction of a senior school led to Marsden Park Anglican College operating as a standalone school in 2024. Starting with around 550 students from pre-k to year 7, the school is continuing to evolve and expand its numbers, and is even set to teach from pre-K right the way through to year 12 over the next three years. Darren told us: “Marsden Park Anglican College continues to go from strength to strength, adding more than 200 students again this year to reach 1,000 students in 2026. By the time we reach our first year 12 cohort in 2029, the College will have over 1,450 students from prep to year 12.” As it expands, MPAC remains focused on its Impact Framework, which reflects its commitments to its students, staff, community, the environment, and beyond. All of this adds up to a school that looks to be recognised for its excellence in education; renowned for its strong partnerships with industry, government, Anglican and other ministries; and recognised as a leader in faith-based learning that equips its students for a rewarding life beyond the classroom. “Live, Love, Lead.” Contact: Darren Cox Company: Marsden Park Anglican College Web Address: https://www.mpac.nsw.edu.au/
Private Education Awards 2026 | 9 the team that children are given one opportunity to experience primary education, and it is their responsibility to make that experience exceptional. This does not only involve delivering strong academic outcomes, but also instilling the habits of curiosity, resilience, and a genuine love of learning that will stay with them for life. St Bernard’s offers a jam-packed curriculum to ensure that every child has the chance to succeed. STEAM – comprising Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics – is taught as a core element of every lesson, rather than in the traditional form of individualised lessons. Children are taught how subjects integrate and work together, as jobs in the real-world are always interdisciplinary. Through STEAM, students develop diverse skillsets and learn how to apply knowledge, research, and skills to solve problems. This is complemented by their GOLD Award-winning sports curriculum, which plays an important role in daily life at St Bernard’s Prep. Children are taught a variety of activities to improve wellbeing and fitness, including dance, gymnastics, athletics, ball skills, circuit training, and smallsided games. Children play competitively in sports fixtures from Year 4 onwards, and the school sees more than 100 matches each year. Sports are also offered as an after-school activity, alongside other engaging initiatives such as book club, musical theatre, choir, judo, coding, touch typing, chess, wellbeing club, filmmaking, debating, and many more. The results of this approach truly speak for themselves; our children at St Bernard’s consistently outperform national standards, evidenced by the school’s extraordinary 88% 11+ pass rate and KS2 SATs results. This success is further underpinned by the school’s status as National Handwriting Champions, proving that children at St Bernard’s Prep master both technical and foundational skills at a national level. “Whilst we dominate in core subjects, our creative output is equally elite,” Asha added. “Achieving a 100% Distinction rate at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art is rare. It demonstrates that our children aren’t just knowledgeable; they are articulate, confident, and possess the ‘soft skills’ that are essential for senior school leadership.” While many competitors offer either high-pressure academics or a nurturing environment, St Bernard’s Preparatory School stands out as a rare exception that provides both. The school has seen year-on-year success in grammar school placements and national competitions, as well as outstanding achievements in the creative arts, demonstrating that a supportive, well-balanced school life is the most effective catalyst for high-level success. For delivering such unrivalled results within a supportive setting, St Bernard’s Preparatory School has been named Berkshire’s Best Catholic Preparatory School 2026. Contact: Asha Verma Company: St Bernard’s Preparatory School Web Address: www.stbernardsprep.org The UK’s educational sector is currently navigating a new era, with the mental health of students now understood to be a prerequisite of academic success. As a result, parents are increasingly moving away from tradition and towards institutions that can promise a more balanced approach of holistic support alongside measurable results. In such a landscape, St Bernard’s Preparatory School stands as a trusted educational provider that blends academic rigour with wellbeing and happiness, ensuring that no child is left behind on their development journey. We heard more from Head Teacher Asha Verma below. Best Catholic Preparatory School 2026 – Berkshire “Our mission, rooted in the Bernardine charism, is to educate towards love and service to God and the community.” St Bernard’s Preparatory School is an award-winning, co-educational Catholic independent school based in Slough, Berkshire. Serving children from ages 2.5 to 11, the school occupies a unique position in the Berkshire education landscape as an institution that successfully harmonises a comprehensive wellbeing-first approach with elite academic performance. With this, it provides a foundational education that bridges the gap between traditional values and modern excellence. Ultimately, the staff at St Bernard’s strives to nurture well-rounded, highachieving individuals who possess both the intellectual drive to succeed and the emotional intelligence to lead happy, fulfilling lives. It aims to send pupils out into the world as courteous, confident, and articulate young citizens who are not just academic success stories, but truly happy and content individuals boasting a deep-seated thirst for knowledge. “We believe that a happy child is a successful child.” “What makes St Bernard’s truly unique is our ability to deliver elite academic outcomes within a culture that refuses to compromise on the joy of childhood,” said Asha. “We don’t just prepare our children for exams; we prepare them for life by ensuring they are happy, well-balanced, and driven to succeed.” To ensure that this vision is upheld across the entire school, St Bernard’s operates with a simple but powerful mantra: “use every minute to teach and learn”. There is a shared understanding across
10 | LUXlife Magazine included Evolution and Inheritance, Bravery versus Fear, Ambition and Desire, Power versus Principles, Magic and Wonder, Heroes and Villains, Dreams and Curiosity, and more. Leweston School also stands out for the quality and rarity of its cocurricular pathways, as one of the very few schools in England where Modern Pentathlon is fully integrated into school life. Leweston is a Pentathlon GB Talent Hub, one of only nine in the country, with access to elite-level coaching and development. Its equestrian provision, through the Leweston Chedington Riding Academy, is a BHS-Approved Centre boasting strong national competition results: Leweston has been NSEA Regional Champions for six years running and has also scored the highest numbers of points twice. One area Leweston staff is particularly proud of, and where external recognition has followed, is the school’s career guidance capabilities. Leweston was shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Careers Advice in both 2025 and 2026, reflecting an ethos that its staff feels strongly about: preparing a young person for life beyond school is not a bolt-on at the end of Year 13. “Our approach starts early and stays personal,” said John. “We offer oneto-one UCAS and careers mentoring, support for both university and degree apprenticeship pathways, and a genuine commitment to helping each pupil understand what they are good at and where they want to go, not steering them towards a predetermined path. For a school of our size to be recognised twice in this category says something, we think, about what happens when you know your pupils well enough to guide them honestly.” From its deliberately personal philosophy to the myriad opportunities offered to students through outstanding cocurricular pathways, Leweston School has emerged as a top choice for students seeking a warm, values-led community, earning further well-deserved recognition as Dorset’s Best Co-Educational Day and Boarding School 2026. Contact: Mr John Paget-Tomlison Company: Leweston School Web Address: www.leweston.co.uk ased in Dorset, Leweston School is an independent, coeducational boarding and day school set on a beautiful rural estate near Sherborne. The school was originally founded as St Antony’s school in 1891 by the Religious of Christian Instruction, the order’s first establishment in its mission to promote an academic and spiritual education in the UK. Leweston has been built upon a longstanding foundation of Catholic education, which continues to shape every aspect of its culture, approach, and values today. Leweston School cares for approximately 550 pupils from nursery age to Sixth Form. It offers five distinct boarding packages, from occasional boarding through to an all-inclusive World package for international families. Ultimately, the school strives to know each student well enough to help them become more than they ever thought possible, not through selective intake or league table positioning but through genuine pastoral care, strong teaching, and a remarkably broad range of opportunities. “Our vision is for every pupil to leave Leweston knowing themselves, their strengths, their character, and what they’re capable of,” John stated. “Academic results matter, but they are not the whole story. We want young people who are confident, curious, resilient, and ready for a world that does not always play to a script.” In a school of Leweston’s size, it is entirely possible for every child to be known by name, and for every member of staff to contribute towards a shared culture of care and ambition. From class sizes that allow for personal attention to a boarding community where staff and students eat, live, and work alongside one another, Leweston School offers a calibre of pastoral care that larger schools can only aspire to provide. As an independent school, Leweston is able to enrich its curriculum further, particularly in its Prep School, by having a forward-thinking approach that blends the core academic requirements of literacy and numeracy with other disciplines. Every half term the learning for each class centres around a focus topic that connects different subjects and disciplines in a meaningful and relevant way, allowing students to make connections between their knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the world. Each thought-provoking topic has an engaging title that is open to interpretation, enabling pupils and teachers to work together on building a learning journey that is exciting, meaningful, and allows opportunities for students to follow their own lines of enquiry. Previous topics have Best Co-Educational Day & Boarding School 2026 – Dorset Every child deserves the chance to achieve academic success, but too many are unfortunately being overlooked within the education system. From overwhelming class sizes to generic guidance on university and beyond, countless children are not receiving the quality of education they deserve. All children are empowered to reach their full potential at Leweston School, with a teaching philosophy that incorporates small class sizes and individual mentoring programmes within a broad, flexible, and enriching curriculum. We heard more from Leweston’s own Headmaster, Mr John Paget-Tomlison, below. B
Private Education Awards 2026 | 11 Independent School of the Year 2026 – UK & Excellence in Wellbeing Support & Education 2026 For more than 140 years, Bromley High School GDST has been a place where girls aged 4–18 can learn without limits. Supported by an education that champions academic results and emotional wellbeing, its girls develop the confidence, skills, and vision to shape the rest of their lives during these formative years. Emily Codling, Headmistress at Bromley High School, shared more about what makes this girls’ independent school such a standout. A terrific girls’ school that is part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), Bromley High School has an exceptional reputation for academic results, sports, and music. Its setting is a green, 25-acre site filled with fantastic facilities, and this environment allows 900 of the brightest girls to flourish. During their time at Bromley High School, pupils not only develop a love of learning, but also a spirit of enquiry and independence of mind. Research has shown that girls thrive in singlesex education, enjoying higher academic results, a broader a range of subjects, and improved self-confidence, resilience, and leadership. Free from gender stereotypes, they are more likely to take risks, innovate, and express individuality, all things Bromley High School encourages. Guided by the fundamental belief that a pupil at Bromley High School can achieve whatever she puts her mind to, the team here design every aspect of school life, from learning spaces and the curriculum to the co-curricular activities, with girls and their potential in mind. The specialist facilities its Junior and Senior Schools boast reflect this, with these including science labs, digital hubs, art and design studios, performance spaces, and a forest school, not to mention a wellbeing hub and a music wing. It is here where the academic excellence Bromley High School strives for across all subjects shines through, as not only was it the World’s first all girls’ school accredited as an All Steinway School (meaning it offers students studying music the best possible instruments), but it is also recognised for its provision of STEM subjects. As this shows, whatever it is that girls have an interest or talent in, they will be nurtured. Bromley High School’s stellar academic record reflects the strengths of this approach, with its pupils consistently achieving excellent results across their GCSE and A-Level results. Last year, GCSE pupils achieved 52% grades 9–8 and 71% 9–7. A-Level pupils achieved 62% A*–A and 87% A*–B, with 97% securing their preferred universities. Outside of the classroom, girls also have access to top sporting facilities, such as a 25-metre indoor pool, a fitness suite, and a full-sized AstroTurf. The opportunities these spaces bring support physical and emotional wellbeing. “Our rich and varied co-curricular programme offers over 90 clubs and societies each week”, Emily explained. “Every girl is encouraged to discover her passions – from debating and drama to coding and cricket.” These spaces are constantly invested in, with recent upgrades including a new playground for its Junior pupils, sensory and classroom gardens, and a canopied courtyard connecting its Junior and Senior schools. A huge highlight, however, has been its middle school, launched for girls in years 5–8 as a way of bridging the gap between its existing Junior and Senior School offerings. Emily told us: “With a bespoke curriculum and specialist teaching, this initiative builds independence, self-esteem, and a love of learning. This is a genuinely distinctive offer that sets us apart as experts in providing a successful transition in a girls’ only environment.” It has been designed to support girls at what is a key phase in their development, at a time in their lives when their self-confidence often needs strengthening. Its focus on the wellbeing of girls also resulted in a new initiative being launched last year around the complexities of women’s health, helping girls to advocate for their health now and in the future. Topics covered range from menopause and mammograms to PCOS and cervical screening, raising the profile of women’s health issues in a way that is relevant and age appropriate. Led by the values of curiosity, compassion, and courage, Bromley High School GDST offers an environment where learning is warm and inclusive and where girls lift each other up. Its students grow holistically and remain part of the community long after their school journey, underpinning the lasting impact it has on its pupils, who leave with stellar results and go on to achieve great things. Contact: [email protected] School: Bromley High School GDST Web Address: www.bromleyhigh.gdst.net
12 | LUXlife Magazine Best Private School Education NPO 2026 – Thailand & Student Wellbeing Excellence Award 2026 Celebrating its 100th anniversary in May 2026, Amnuay Silpa School (ANS) continues to set the standard for internationalbilingual education in Bangkok. By combining the richness of Thai culture with a global outlook, ANS provides students with a truly unique educational experience. As the only Thai-UK bilingual ‘Thinking School’ accredited by the University of Exeter, ANS is recognised for its commitment to academic excellence, critical thinking, and character development. Principal Andrew Parry caught up with us for more, following ANS' recognition here. Providing a holistic education for students from nursery through to year 13, ANS’ history dates back to 1926. Academic excellence has defined Amnuay Silpa School since its early years. ANS gained national recognition when many Year 13 students achieved outstanding national examination results, with several ranked among Thailand’s top 50 students. Two students even achieved the highest and thirdhighest scores, respectively. This paved the way for the tremendous growth the institution has undergone over the last century, guided at every turn by the aim of navigating change and playing a leading role in educating successful global citizens. Today, its status as the first Thinking School in Asia and delivery of a dual curriculum aligned with both Thai and UK standards sets ANS apart. It garners consistently strong outcomes across its O-NET, IGCSE, A-Level, and IELTS examinations, preparing its students for success either locally or internationally. Yet, the part it plays in the future of its pupils goes beyond results, and the team are committed to developing students who achieve high but who are also thoughtful, ready, and globally aware. Andrew explained: “Our vision is to shape futureready leaders who are confident in navigating both local and global contexts. We want our students to leave ANS with the attitudes, skills, knowledge, and values to thrive in an everchanging world. We ensure this vision is lived daily through a strong, values-driven culture. Respect sits at the heart of our community, and this is reinforced through our curriculum and student leadership opportunities providing open channels for student voice.” Central to the school’s high-performing excellence is its blend of global education and local tradition, with the ‘best of both worlds’ approach of its Thai-UK education seeing rigorous academic standards combined with the deepest respect for its local identity. In striking this balance, staff create a bilingual environment where its students do not have to choose between local relevance and the global opportunities that await. ANS is especially passionate about making sure that its approach goes beyond surface-level internationalism, and its students are instead given the chance to engage deeply with global issues, perspectives, and values. This feeds into a deeper focus on metacognition and enrichment, with programmes in place to ensure that students develop as wellrounded individuals. Andrew himself added: “Our memberships with Thinking Schools, COBIS, FOBISIA, and CIS, alongside strong partnerships for professional development, ensure our teaching also remains innovative and internationally benchmarked.” The quality of its teaching is something ANS takes great pride in, as it believes great schools are built on a community of great teachers. Apart from its memberships in the above networks, this focus also sees the team partake in leadership programmes and ongoing training. What follows is a culture where taking the initiative and engaging in meaningful collaboration is celebrated, and this is the foundation of ANS’ success. With plans to continue down the path of innovation and growth, this 100-year legacy bilingual school in Thailand is excited to be expanding its enrichment provision, especially concerning sports and student leadership, as well as strengthening its environmental initiatives and continuing to host an annual Thinking Conference, where it shares best practice and research to support Thai schools. The purpose of all of this is to solidify its status as a leading institution, as it enters into its second century. To be recognised in our Private Education Awards on the year of its centenary – which saw it gather Buddhist monks for offerings and blessings and awarded staff for their long service, ranging from 10–50 years – means Amnuay Silpa School can continue to celebrate as it begins the new academic year, and with this being far from the only award it has achieved (ANS has also won awards for supporting healthy lives), it should be immensely proud of the work it is doing in shaping the bright futures of its pupils. Contact: Andrew Parry Company: Amnuay Silpa School Web Address: https://www.amnuaysilpa.ac.th/ Amnuay Silpa School
Private Education Awards 2026 | 13 Children are naturally curious and eager to explore the world around them, meaning that they thrive best when they are placed at the heart of their own education. Curiosity is the driving force behind a child’s desire to learn, and encouraging it is essential to developing an engaged and motivated learner who will achieve lifelong success. Marlborough House Vinehall is a leading coeducational preparatory school that recognises this fact, offering an exceptional child-centred, individualised approach to education for children aged 2 to 13. We explored the school’s offerings in more depth below, as Marlborough House Vinehall is named in the Private Education Awards 2026. Most ChildCentred Prep School 2026 – South East England exceptional sporting facilities – such as an astroturf and an indoor heated swimming pool – and dedicated spaces for drama and music, including a 270-seat theatre. With 300 pupils in its opening year, Marlborough House Vinehall has proven itself to be the ideal size for a thriving prep school. It offers wellbalanced class sizes and year groups, as well as outstanding pastoral care. With continuous investment in the school and the ability to attract and retain high-quality staff, the school offers a wide range of cocurricular opportunities, a vibrant music and performing arts programme, and a wide range of sports teams for boys and girls. Pupils and staff alike benefit from Marlborough House Vinehall’s collaboration with the wider Repton Family of Schools, which comprises 11 schools worldwide and educates more than 10,000 pupils. This partnership offers a globally-minded education rooted in British tradition, providing Marlborough House Vinehall with shared resources and teaching innovation, global school exchanges and pupil collaborations, access to flexible and adaptive digital learning platforms, and a network of excellence driven by a unified mission: to give every child the best possible start. “We are unapologetically forward-thinking, planning a varied and challenging curriculum that allows every child to finish their time at Marlborough House Vinehall fully prepared for what lies ahead.” Marlborough House Vinehall recognises the importance of preparing its pupils to thrive in an ever-changing world. Whilst ambitious academia will always remain a fundamental part of its work, the school has embedded its belief in teaching pupils to think creatively, build resilience, and pursue curiosity into every aspect of its operations. At the core of everything Marlborough House Vinehall does is the question “What is best for the children?”, and this focus has been instrumental in positioning Marlborough House Vinehall as South East England’s Most Child-Centred Prep School 2026. Contact: Daniel MacDonnell Company: Marlborough House Vinehall School Web Address: www.mhvschool.co.uk “We believe that every child should be the hero of their own story; a story that unfolds as new interests are fostered and new talents discovered.” Marlborough House Vinehall provides a vibrant educational environment for both day and boarding pupils, with a curriculum designed to balance academic ambition with artistic, sporting, and personal development. The school brings together two prestigious prep schools, Marlborough House and Vinehall, in an ambitious development that sees the two schools united on the existing Vinehall site. Building on shared traditions and values, this collaboration has made significant waves across the South East’s independent education sector. Today, MHV offers a curriculum designed to support and inspire at every stage of a child’s development, from the earliest years through to preparation for senior school. Each phase of the school offers a rare blend of academic excellence, creativity, and pastoral care tailored to the needs of its leaners. Ultimately aiming to support every child in becoming the best version of themselves, staff place significant value on preserving childhood and understand the need for children to take risks and explore the outside world. Marlborough House Vinehall is set across 50 acres of beautiful rural grounds, providing pupils with the perfect backdrop for a blend of structured learning and unstructured exploration. It boasts
14 | LUXlife Magazine ducating boys aged 13 to 18, Tonbridge School is one of the UK's leading independent schools. The School's mission is to develop "fine minds and good hearts", underpinned by its guiding principle, Only Connect. This reflects the belief that education should link intellectual ambition with empathy, collaboration and real-world engagement, preparing young people not only for examinations, but for life beyond school. “Our aim is not simply to prepare pupils for examinations, but to equip them with the skills, judgement and values needed to thrive beyond school," says James Priory, Headmaster. "We want them to leave Tonbridge with both intellectual confidence and a strong sense of responsibility to others." This vision is embedded across the school, shaping curriculum design, co-curricular provision and pastoral care, ensuring consistency of purpose throughout pupils’ life at school. Staff model these values through their teaching and wider involvement in school life, while pupils are encouraged to take ownership through leadership, service and creative endeavour. The result is a shared culture where ambition and responsibility are closely aligned. What sets Tonbridge apart is the coherence of its educational model. Academic excellence, co-curricular breadth and character development are not separate strands but part of a unified approach to education. The school's boarding ethos creates a strong sense of community for both boarders and day boys, while its House system ensures that every pupil is known, supported and challenged to fulfil his potential. Tonbridge combines elite performance with inclusive participation, offering exceptional opportunities across academics, sport and the arts while maintaining a culture where every pupil is expected to engage fully. Through its Global Futures Department and THINK 25 initiative, Tonbridge encourages boys to consider not just where they will go at 18, but who they will become at 25 and beyond. Universities and careers guidance is integrated into a broader programme of future readiness, helping pupils develop the confidence, experience and self-awareness needed to navigate an increasingly complex world. The school's commitment to connecting learning with real-world impact is further demonstrated through Tonbridge Community Action, which provides opportunities for pupils to engage meaningfully with local charities, schools and community organisations. These experiences Independent Boys' Boarding School of the Year 2026 UK The independent education sector is increasingly focused on demonstrating value beyond examination results. Families are seeking schools that offer both academic excellence and meaningful preparation for life, including wellbeing, global awareness and future employability. Based in Kent, Tonbridge School is a leading independent boarding and day school renowned for providing an exceptional all-round education that equips boys for success far beyond its gates. As such, we’re delighted to celebrate Tonbridge School in our Private Education Awards 2026. encourage boys to recognise their responsibilities to others and develop a lifelong commitment to service. Equally important at Tonbridge is its people and culture. Pupils are encouraged to aim high, while also understanding the importance of humility, kindness and contribution. This balance, captured in the school's aim of developing both fine minds and good hearts, underpins everything it does and ensures that success is measured not only by achievement, but by character. Looking ahead, Tonbridge will continue to build on its strengths while developing new areas of innovation. Key priorities include the expansion of THINK 25, strengthening partnerships through the Tonbridge Society and the continued growth of the school's IMPACT programmes which offer enrichment to young people during school holidays. These initiatives bring together leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation and service, helping pupils develop the mindset and capabilities needed to make a positive contribution in a rapidly changing world. Investment in facilities and learning environments will continue, alongside a focus on emerging areas such as digital creativity and film. The school is also preparing for its 475th anniversary in 2028, using this milestone as an opportunity to look forward and further widen access through its Foundation Awards programme. "Above all, our focus remains on ensuring that a Tonbridge education continues to evolve in response to the needs of pupils, and the wider world", concludes Mr Priory. With state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional opportunities across academics, sport and the arts, and a community dedicated to helping every pupil flourish, Tonbridge School has firmly established itself as one of the UK's leading independent schools. LUXlife Magazine is delighted to recognise this achievement by naming Tonbridge School the UK's Independent Boys' Boarding School of the Year 2026. Contact: [email protected] Company: Tonbridge School Web Address: www.tonbridge-school.co.uk This interview took place before Tonbridge School announced that its Sixth Form will become co-educational from September 2028. This exciting development will further enhance the School's exceptional Sixth Form provision, while the Lower School will remain boys-only. E
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