What is the Principals award?

[Harcar]

My MIL told me that my Nephew who is at Secondary School received the Principals award. My FIL Said Principals are what used to be called Prefects but I thought the Principal was the headteacher? who is right?

It’s good news though

The Principal is the Headteacher.

The Principal is usually the equivalent of a Head Teacher in an Academy.

Thanks. That makes sense.