National Recognition for AKS Lytham's Outstanding Careers Education

AKS is celebrating national recognition after being commended in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2026 for its outstanding careers education, placing the school among those progressing to the next stage of one of the UK's most prestigious independent school awards.

The recognition follows the school's recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection, which identified careers education as a Significant Strength. The inspection highlighted the breadth of opportunities available to students through the school's PEAKS (Pursuit of Excellence at AKS) programme, employer partnerships and, importantly, the invaluable support of its OAKS alumni community, whose willingness to share career insights, guidance and professional experiences continues to enrich the student experience and inspire the next generation.

Chair of Governors David Stanhope said: "The governors and United Learning are delighted to see AKS recognised nationally following the ISI's identification of careers education as a Significant Strength. Being part of United Learning ensures AKS remains financially strong, even during periods of economic uncertainty, giving us the confidence to continue investing in our students, staff and facilities. Recent capital improvements of more than £2 million, together with the phased rollout of one-to-one devices across the Senior School, demonstrate that commitment and ensure we are well placed for the future."

Senior Deputy Head Allan McKeown added: "We are absolutely delighted to be commended for this award, which follows our recent ISI recognition of careers education as a Significant Strength. At AKS, we are committed to ensuring our students leave with not only outstanding academic qualifications but also the skills, confidence and experiences needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world of work. In particular, the support of our OAKS alumni, who so generously give their time to share career insights, guidance and professional experiences with our Sixth Form students, is proving invaluable and this recognition is a testament to that collective commitment."

Headmaster David Harrow said: "We are incredibly proud to be commended for our careers provision. This national recognition reflects the ambition and dedication of our staff, students, alumni and wider school community, while reinforcing our commitment to preparing young people not only with outstanding academic qualifications but also with the skills, experiences and professional networks they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. At AKS, careers education is embedded throughout school life, ensuring every student benefits from meaningful experiences and opportunities that equip them with the confidence and knowledge to make informed choices about their future."

With the highest number of entries ever received in the awards' history, AKS is especially proud to have been recognised at this stage of the judging process and looks forward to the next phase of the awards in September.

The school would like to thank every member of the OAKS community who has supported careers education through PEAKS, careers talks, workplace visits, networking opportunities and student enrichment. Your continued willingness to give back is making a lasting difference to current students as they prepare for life beyond AKS.