Maidstone Special School Earns Place Among World's Top 10
By School's Correspondent
A special school in Maidstone has been recognised among the world's most innovative after being shortlisted for a prestigious international education award.
Five Acre Wood School has been named in the Top 10 for the 2026 World's Best School Prize for Innovation, becoming the first school in Maidstone to be shortlisted for one of the global awards.
The school, which supports children and young people with complex learning needs, was recognised for its creative approach to preparing pupils for adulthood and employment.
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At the heart of its success is the FAWrient Express, a public café housed inside a converted railway carriage, where students gain hands-on experience in hospitality and customer service.
Sponsored by Costa Coffee – the company's only sponsored school café in the UK – the project gives pupils the opportunity to develop practical skills in a real working environment.
The judges also recognised the school's wider commitment to creating meaningful opportunities that help pupils build confidence, independence and skills for the future.
Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone and Malling, welcomed the news, describing the shortlist as a "remarkable achievement".
She said: "Having visited the school and seen its pioneering approach first-hand, I know just how special Five Acre Wood is. From the FAWrient Express to its unique learning environments, the school continually finds innovative ways to inspire and empower young people."
Principal Peggy Murphy said the recognition reflected the efforts of the entire school community.
She said: "Being recognised amongst some of the most innovative schools in the world is a tremendous honour and a powerful endorsement of our vision.
"This recognition belongs to every pupil, every member of staff, every family and every partner who helps make our school such a special place."
Five Acre Wood is one of five UK schools to reach the Top 10 across this year's World's Best School Prizes, organised by T4 Education.
The winners will be announced in November, while members of the public can also vote in the Community Choice Award.
