Ballard school wins Best Co-Educational School of the Year at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards

A NEW Milton school has taken home a top gong at a nationwide awards do for independent educators.

Ballard school was crowned Best Co-Educational School of the Year at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards.

Headmaster Andrew McCleave said Ballard, which educates children from two to 16, impressed with its ‘for all’ ethos and culture of inclusivity “where every pupil is equal, and no subject or interest is considered out of reach”.

The awards are run by Independent School Parent magazine and celebrate stories of the “great work being undertaken across the independent sector”.

Mr McCleave added: “These awards are open to every independent school in the country, so being recognised is a real honour and a truly proud moment in the school’s history. It is a testament to the exceptional work happening across our community.

“Our ‘for all’ ethos underpins everything we do here, and it is so pleasing to see that celebrated. Ballard is built on a foundation of inclusivity and mutual respect.

“Co-education is at the heart of our philosophy – boys and girls learn with and from each other, and every pupil is encouraged to challenge themselves and embrace all the opportunities that come their way.

"All of this has been made possible by the commitment of our passionate staff, the support of our wonderful families, and the positivity and enthusiasm of our pupils. On behalf of our whole community, I am delighted to see this acknowledgement of our shared success."

It is Ballard’s third time in the finals of the awards; the school was a finalist in the Sporting Achievement Award last year, and in the Excellence in Performing Arts Award in 2022. The school has also previously won the Award for Excellence in Arts in the ISA Awards.

Ballard is also currently one of three finalists in the Independent School Association Award for Excellence in Fine Arts & Design.