Gordano School has been recognised as one of Portishead's leading community champions after winning two prestigious honours at the inaugural Together Portishead Community Business Awards, receiving both the Community – Give Back Award and the evening's highest accolade, the Spirit of Portishead Award, which was awarded jointly with LIFE:ALIGNED and presented by Sadik Al-Hassan, Labour MP for North Somerset.

The awards celebrate the individuals, organisations and businesses that make an exceptional contribution to the Portishead community. Receiving both awards is a tremendous honour and recognises Gordano School's commitment to developing not only successful students, but compassionate, responsible young people who understand the importance of giving back.

“Gordano School’s achievement this year was nothing short of remarkable. Winning The Community Award highlights their incredible dedication to teaching our young people the value of active, compassionate community involvement. On top of that, their historic double-win as joint champions of The Together Portishead Overall Award reflects the extraordinary groundswell of support they mobilised across their students, staff, and local families. They truly embody the spirit of togetherness that defines Portishead, and we are enormously proud to celebrate their success.”

— Rachel Nash, Director, Together Portishead

As Portishead's only secondary school, Gordano is proud to play a central role in the local community. Guided by its values of Dream Big – Do Your Best – Give Back and, as a member of the Lighthouse Schools Partnership, a shared commitment to helping every child flourish, the school believes education extends far beyond the classroom.

This commitment is reflected in every aspect of school life. From Duke of Edinburgh volunteering, charity fundraising and community performances to careers education, work experience and partnerships with local businesses, Gordano provides opportunities for students to develop the confidence, skills and values they need to become the employees, entrepreneurs and community leaders of the future. Through initiatives such as the Gordano Community Partners Scheme, GoShine community sports facilities, strong partnerships with local organisations and extensive support for children and families, the school's impact reaches far beyond its school gates.

Louise Blundell, Headteacher at Gordano School, said:

"We are incredibly proud to receive not just the Community – Give Back Award, but also the overall Spirit of Portishead Award. These awards reflect everything that makes Gordano School so special. As a proud member of the Lighthouse Schools Partnership, we are committed to helping our pupils flourish not only academically, but as compassionate, responsible citizens who make a positive difference in their communities. This recognition celebrates the dedication of our students, staff, families and community partners who share that vision every day. We are deeply grateful to everyone who voted for us and supported our nomination. These awards truly belong to our whole community."

The school would like to thank everyone who voted in the awards and supported its nomination. The encouragement shown by students, staff, parents, carers, alumni, local businesses and the wider Portishead community made this recognition even more meaningful.

Gary Lewis, CEO of Lighthouse Schools Partnership Trust, added: "As a former Head of Gordano, I know what a special place it is. I am delighted to see this recognition of a school deeply connected to its community. Louise Blundell and her team have done an outstanding job in building on Gordano's strengths and ensuring that students, families and staff feel part of something truly exceptional."

Gordano School would also like to congratulate all of the finalists and winners recognised at the Together Portishead Community Business Awards. Their contributions help make Portishead such a vibrant, supportive and inspiring place to live and work.

Thank you to everyone who voted for Gordano School and for your continued support. Together, we are helping to inspire the next generation to dream big, do their best and give back to their community.

Gordano School - Together Portishead Community Business Awards