Shireland CBSO Academy has been shortlisted for Secondary School of the Year at the Edufuturists Awards 2025, a national award that celebrates innovation and excellence in education across the UK.
The nomination comes less than two years after the Academy opened its doors in September 2023 in collaboration with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO). Since then, the school has already made a significant impact thanks to its innovative model that blends music with academic excellence.
Hosted by Edufuturists, a leading platform that champions forward-thinking education and innovative teaching practices, the awards spotlight schools, trusts and educators helping to shape the future of learning. The Secondary School of the Year category specifically recognises institutions that deliver exceptional outcomes for their students, innovate within the curriculum and positively influence their communities.
Proudly serving Sandwell and the wider West Midlands, Shireland CBSO Academy has been praised for its unique approach to secondary education. By harnessing the power of music to engage, challenge, and inspire students, the Academy offers students exceptional and unique learning opportunities to excel academically and personally.
David Green, Principal at Shireland CBSO Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been shortlisted for the Edufuturists Awards. To receive national recognition so early on in our school’s journey is both humbling and a true reflection of the dedication and passion of our staff, students and wider community.
“Our partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra has enabled us to create something truly unique – a school where education and music are seamlessly interwoven to unlock opportunity, inspire ambition, and support every aspect of our students’ development. Through a rich and innovative curriculum, we nurture creativity, build confidence, and foster a lifelong love of learning, while supporting academic achievement, musical excellence, and personal growth. This nomination is a celebration of everything our young people represent and the incredible futures they are shaping for themselves.”
Earlier this year, Shireland CBSO Academy was also shortlisted for an Excellence in Education and Training award at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s 2025 Annual Business Awards, further highlighting its impact and success in the local community.
Shireland CBSO Academy’s success reflects a broader recognition for Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, which currently leads a family of seven primary and five secondary schools across the Black Country area of the West Midlands. The Trust has also been shortlisted for Multi-Academy Trust of the Year at the same awards, underlining its innovative vision, collaborative approach and significant impact across the education sector.
Members of the public can vote for Shireland CBSO Academy and Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust by completing the nomination form on the Edufuturists website here.
