A rural prep school near Newcastle has reached the finals of a prestigious national award for the second year running.
Mowden Hall School in Stocksfield, Northumberland, has been named one of six finalists in the Small Independent School of the Year category at the Independent Schools of the Year 2026 Awards.
As the independent school sector’s leading awards programme, the awards celebrate the benefits of an independent school education and highlight the innovative, caring, and life-enhancing experiences pupils enjoy.
Mowden reached the final of the prestigious awards last year, going on to be crowned Prep School of the Year – something they will hope to do again in October.
Headteacher of Mowden Hall School, Phil Sturt, expressed his pride at reaching the final six:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be announced as a finalist in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards.”
“For a school of our size to achieve this feat once is remarkable. To do it in consecutive years leaves me speechless.”
“Win or lose, this recognition is a wonderful reflection of our staff and pupils, their commitment and of the special community we have built here.”
Based within 52 acres in the Northumberland countryside, Mowden Hall School is known for combining a strong academic foundation with a rich programme of co-curricular opportunities. With its caring ethos, emphasis on creativity, and commitment to helping children enjoy childhood to the fullest, the school offers an education that goes beyond the classroom.
The winners of the Independent Schools of the Year 2026 awards will be announced at a ceremony at The Law Society in London on Wednesday 14th October.
The post Northumberland Prep School Named Among UK Award Finalists appeared first on Newcastle Magazine – Your source for inspiring Newcastle news.
