The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 has named the top secondary schools in Derby and the wider East Midlands.
Widely acknowledged as the most authoritative survey of the country’s top schools, The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide is recognised as the definitive ranking of top schools in the UK.
The highly anticipated listing recognises strongest performing educational institutions using exam results and overall achievement.
Now in its 33rd year, the guide remains an essential resource for parents seeking the very best in education for their children.
Parents hold the guide in high regard as it offers a clear and easy to understand explanation of how schools are performing across the region and wider country.
The timing of the guide’s release is also important, being released at a time when families grapple with tough choices, shrinking budgets and growing concerns about the wellbeing of students.
Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, said: “The educational landscape is testing – budget challenges, rising student mental health issues, special educational needs and an increasingly uncertain future.
“But there is also so much to celebrate from the dedication of teachers who are finding ever more innovative and impactful ways to enrich their students and give them the very best start in life.
“As well as celebrating the academic excellence of the top schools it is uplifting to see how they are shaping their students to be ready for the 21st century, and instilling a lifelong love of learning.”
“This year’s rankings show how certain schools continue to raise the bar through consistent results, strong pastoral care, and a focus on helping students thrive beyond the classroom.”
Here is the link to the guide:
https://www.thetimes.com/best-schools-league-table/secondary/article/secondary-schools-revealed-2026-g9w9n8rqw
Here are the top comprehensive secondary schools in and around Derby, featured in our gallery below.
5. Landau Forte College (282nd nationally)
Landau Forte College is an academy in Derby. It was formerly rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. Location: Fox Street, Derby DE1 2LF | Google
6. The Becket School Nottingham (320th nationally)
The Becket School is a co-educational secondary Catholic school with academy status. Location: Wilford Lane, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7QY | Google
7. Northampton School for Boys (226th nationally)
Northampton School for Boys is an 11-18 state funded single sex boys’ school. Location: Billing Road, Northampton NN1 5RT | Google
8. Prince William School (363rd nationally)
Prince William School is a secondary academy in Oundle, North Northamptonshire, which was most recently rated ‘good’ overall by Ofsted. Location: Herne Road, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4BS | Google