Lincolnshire secondary schools figure among top ten in East Midlands in Sunday Times guide
Seven Lincolnshire schools have figured among the top ten state secondary schools in the East Midlands, according to The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026 which went live on Friday December 5.
The list is recognised as the definitive ranking of the UK’s top schools and remains an essential source for parents seeking the very best education for their children.


It is seen as especially valuable as the education landscape becomes trickier to navigate with budget challenges, special educational needs, and an increase in mental health issues among students.
Caistor Grammar School was among the highest placed state secondary schools in the East Midlands this year, behind Kings School, Grantham and Bourne Grammar School who were first and second respectively.
It places Caistor 177th nationally.
Caistor Grammar School was proud of its sustained success in the latest school league tables, saying that this achievement reflects the continued dedication, hard work, and commitment of students, staff, and the entire school community.
Headteacher, Shona Buck commented: "We are thrilled with this result. It once again demonstrates our unwavering focus on academic excellence and holistic development. Our students have shown incredible resilience and determination, and this recognition is a testament to their efforts.
“This success is rooted in our school motto: Ever to Excel: we seek to use lively minds, to work hard, to develop all of our talents and to grow through sharing, to be the best version of ourselves."
The league tables measure performance across key indicators, including academic results, progress, and overall student experience. Ms Buck said that achieving third place highlights their strong reputation for delivering high-quality education and fostering an environment where every student can thrive.
“We remain committed to continuous improvement and excellence in teaching and learning, ensuring that every child reaches their full potential.”
Kesteven and Sleaford High School in Sleaford came 10th in the East Midlands (286th nationally).
Headteacher Josephine Smith was also proud to once again be ranked among the top ten this year, continuing a tradition of success from previous years. “This national recognition reflects the dedication and hard work of our students and staff, as well as the incredible support from parents and the wider school community. Together, we make our high school an outstanding place to learn and grow.”
As well as an assessment of academic results on a school-by-school basis, The Sunday Times Parent Power guide enables parents to compare the performance of a given school with other schools in the same area, local authority or nationally.
Helen Davies, editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide, said: “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.”
The other Lincolnshire schools in the top ten state schools in the East Midlands were: 4th Kesteven and Grantham Girls’ School, Grantham (68 national ranking); 6th Spalding High School (235= nationally); 7th Queen Elizabeth’s High School, Gainsborough (305 nationally).
