Dartmouth Academy Pupils Enjoy Rewarding Day at Woodlands Theme Park  Pupils from Dartmouth Academy enjoyed an exciting day at Woodlands Family Theme Park this term thanks to a special trip organised and supported by the local Rotary Club.  Twenty five year 6 and year 7 pupils took part in the reward trip, which recognised their positive contributions to academy life and commitment to the school's values.  Throughout the day, pupils enjoyed a range of rides, attractions and activities. Woodlands Family Theme Park offers a variety of attractions, adventure play areas and rides, making it one of Devon's most popular destinations for young people.  The visit provided pupils with an opportunity to celebrate their achievements outside the classroom while enjoying new experiences in a fun environment.  Dartmouth Academy would like to extend its sincere thanks to the Rotary Club and its volunteers for their generosity, support and commitment to providing enriching opportunities for local young people.  The academy remains committed to celebrating pupil success and offering a wide range of experiences that support personal development alongside academic achievement.  Paul Girardot,  Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:  "We are incredibly grateful to the Rotary Club for organising and facilitating such a fantastic day for our pupils. The children had a wonderful time and were a credit to the academy throughout the visit. Opportunities like this are invaluable in recognising pupils' efforts and helping them create positive memories with their peers."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "Experiences like this are a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate the positive contributions that young people make to their school communities. We are grateful to the Rotary Club for their continued support in creating opportunities that inspire, reward and motivate young people.”

Kingsbridge Community College to Showcase Student Creativity at KCCREATE Exhibition   Students from Kingsbridge Community College are preparing to showcase their artistic talents as part of the school's annual KCCREATE exhibition, which opens on the 25th June at Harbour House Gallery in Kingsbridge.  The exhibition will feature a diverse collection of artwork and photography created by students from years 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13, highlighting the creativity, skill and imagination of young artists from across the school.  Running until the 4th of July, the exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to view a wide range of pieces produced throughout the academic year, celebrating the achievements of students at every stage of their artistic journey.  Hosted at Harbour House Gallery, the exhibition provides a professional setting for students to share their work with the local community and gain experience of exhibiting their art in a public gallery space.  The exhibition is open from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and visitors are warmly invited to attend and support the students' work.  The exhibition also reflects the college’s commitment to enrichment and creative opportunities beyond the classroom. Students regularly take part in workshops, collaborations with practising artists and visits that connect them with the wider creative industries.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  "KCCREATE is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creativity and talent of our students. The exhibition showcases an impressive range of artwork and photography, reflecting the hard work, dedication and individuality of our young artists. We are delighted to share their achievements with the wider community."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  "Creative subjects play a vital role in helping young people develop confidence, self-expression and new ways of thinking. KCCREATE is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their talents in a professional gallery setting and to share their work with the wider community. We are incredibly proud of the creativity, dedication and ambition demonstrated by our students, and I would encourage everyone to visit the exhibition and see their achievements for themselves." 

Students Inspired by Live Music and Conversation on Mental Health at South Devon UTC  Students at South Devon UTC were given a unique and inspiring experience this term as emerging folk and indie artist Luke McAuley visited the college to perform a live set and speak openly about his journey with mental health.  The event saw students come together to enjoy live music before taking part in a thoughtful and engaging question and answer session. Luke shared his personal experiences, offering an honest insight into the challenges he has faced and how music has played a role in his wellbeing.  The session provided students with an opportunity to reflect on the importance of mental health, resilience and self-expression, while also hearing first-hand how creative outlets can support wellbeing.  The visit reflects the college’s ongoing commitment to supporting student wellbeing alongside academic and technical education, ensuring young people are equipped with the confidence and awareness to navigate challenges both in and beyond school.  Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said:  “It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to hear from Luke, not only as a musician but as someone willing to speak openly and honestly about mental health. Events like this help to break down stigma and encourage important conversations among young people.  Our students engaged brilliantly with both the performance and the discussion, asking thoughtful questions and showing real maturity in how they approached the topic. We are grateful to Luke for sharing his story and to The Prime Agency for helping to make this event possible.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  “Creating opportunities like this for our students is incredibly important. Hearing directly from someone like Luke, who can combine creative talent with an honest conversation about mental health, makes a real and lasting impact.  At Education South West, we are committed to ensuring our young people are not only academically prepared, but also supported in developing resilience, self-awareness and confidence. Experiences like this help to equip them with the understanding and skills they need to look after their wellbeing and support others.”

Teign School Student Recognised for Prestigious High Sheriff Cadet Appointment  Teign School is celebrating the achievements of student Caitlin Mortimore, who was appointed as one of the High Sheriff of Devon's Cadets, a prestigious role recognising young people who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their communities.  Caitlin served as a cadet to Caroline Harlow, the former High Sheriff of Devon, throughout her year in office. In the role, Caitlin attended a wide range of civic, community and charitable events across the county, gaining first-hand experience of public service and supporting the High Sheriff's work to promote and recognise individuals and organisations making a positive difference in Devon.  During her time as a High Sheriff Cadet, Caitlin showed exceptional dedication and leadership. Inspired by Caroline Harlow's work raising awareness of gambling harm, Caitlin went a step further by inviting both Caroline and gambling recovery advocate Andy Gallie to speak to her Police Cadet unit about the dangers of gambling addiction and the support available to those affected.  The appointment provided Caitlin with a unique opportunity to meet community leaders, learn more about the work of charities and public services, and develop valuable skills that will support her future aspirations.  Everyone at Teign School congratulates Caitlin on this outstanding achievement and thanks her for the positive impact she has made throughout her year as a High Sheriff Cadet.  Lucie Wagner, Headteacher at Teign School, said:  "Being appointed as a High Sheriff Cadet is a tremendous achievement and a reflection of Caitlin's commitment, maturity and desire to make a positive contribution to her community. We are incredibly proud of everything she has achieved during her time in the role.  "What is particularly impressive is the way Caitlin embraced the opportunities the position offered and used them to benefit others. Inviting speakers to educate fellow cadets about gambling addiction demonstrates real leadership and a genuine commitment to helping those around her. She is a wonderful ambassador for both Teign School and the wider community."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  "At Education South West, we want every young person to leave our schools as confident, responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society. Caitlin embodies those values and we are incredibly proud of the impact she has made throughout her year as a High Sheriff Cadet. She is a fantastic role model for other young people across our schools and communities."

Education South West Wins National Staff Development Award  Education South West (ESW) is celebrating national success after winning the ‘Staff Development Award’ at the prestigious MAT Excellence Awards.  ESW received the award in recognition of its sector-leading commitment to professional development, career progression and staff wellbeing.  The award celebrates trusts that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to developing their people and creating a culture where staff can thrive. Judges recognised our ambitious and inclusive approach to professional growth.  The MAT Excellence Awards celebrate the achievements of multi-academy trusts across the country and recognise organisations making a significant difference to children, staff and communities.  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  "We are absolutely delighted to be recognised for our staff development. This recognition reflects something we care deeply about as a trust, creating an environment where people can grow, develop and build fulfilling careers while making a difference to the lives of children and young people.  "We know that investing in our staff is one of the most powerful things we can do to improve outcomes for pupils. The fact that so many of our leaders have progressed through our schools demonstrates the strength of the culture we have built together.  "This award belongs to every colleague across Education South West. Their commitment, professionalism and willingness to continually learn and improve are what make our trust such a special place to work and learn."

Outstanding Success for KCC’s Young Chemists in National Olympiad  Students at Kingsbridge Community College are celebrating exceptional success in the 2026 RSC Chemistry Olympiad, one of the UK’s most demanding academic competitions for A Level Chemistry students.  Organised annually by the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Olympiad challenges students with complex chemical concepts that extend far beyond the standard A Level syllabus. The competition is recognised nationally for its rigorous two-hour examination and high academic standard.  This year’s achievements are particularly impressive for the school’s Year 12 students, many of whom had only completed one term of A Level Chemistry before sitting the paper. Their success reflects not only outstanding academic ability, but also dedication, resilience, and enthusiasm for the subject.  The school praised all students who took part, highlighting the commitment they showed in preparing for such a demanding challenge.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  “We are incredibly proud of every student who participated in the Chemistry Olympiad. Their determination and willingness to challenge themselves beyond the classroom has been truly inspiring.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “To achieve success in such a prestigious national competition after only one term of A Level study is an exceptional accomplishment and a testament to the talent and hard work of our students.”

Kier Construction Welcomes Newton Abbot Students for Inspiring Workplace Experience  Engineering students from South Devon UTC enjoyed a valuable and engaging workplace experience recently as they visited Kier Construction in Lifton. The visit offered students a rare opportunity to see engineering in action at a live water‑infrastructure project, where a new pump station for the River Lyd is currently under construction.  During the visit, twelve students took part in a full site tour, gaining a close-up look at the scale, complexity and precision involved in major construction work. They also took part in a hands-on activity linked to real engineering challenges, helping them connect classroom learning with practical application.  The day continued with a careers talk from members of the Kier team, who shared insights into the wide range of roles within the construction and engineering sectors. Students rounded off the visit with a Q&A session, asking thoughtful questions about pathways into the industry, apprenticeships and future opportunities.  Kier Construction is one of the UK’s leading infrastructure and construction companies, delivering major projects across transport, utilities, education and public services. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability and community partnership, Kier plays a key role in shaping essential infrastructure nationwide.  Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said:  “Experiences like this are invaluable, they help students see how engineering shapes the world around them. It was fantastic to watch their confidence grow as they engaged with professionals on site.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  “Providing students with direct access to industry is at the heart of what we do at the UTC. Opportunities like this ignite ambition, broaden horizons and help young people understand the incredible careers that engineering can offer. We are grateful to Kier Construction for giving our students such an inspiring and memorable experience.”

Ofsted Praises Rydon Primary's Ambitious Curriculum and Inclusive Ethos   Pupils and staff at Rydon Primary are celebrating after receiving their Ofsted report following a recent inspection.  The school met the ‘expected standard’ in the categories of achievement, attendance and behaviour, curriculum and teaching, inclusion, early years provision and leadership and governance. Their personal development and wellbeing offer was graded at a ‘strong standard’  with inspectors saying that leaders have designed an extensive personal development programme, expertly tailored to the school’s context and that leaders are relentless in their pursuit of equality.  The wide range of opportunities the school provides for pupils was a focus in the report with inspectors commenting that beyond the classroom, pupils enjoy a wide range of clubs, curriculum trips and enrichment activities. A wide range of rewards, particularly the school’s ‘11 by 11’ strategy, broadens pupils’ experiences. For example, forest school sessions enable pupils to develop new skills in an outdoor environment.  The school was also described as inclusive with the report noting that staff routinely adapt learning activities to ensure that pupils with SEND are able to access the same curriculum as their peers.  The report states that pupils take pride in being part of Rydon Primary School, they attend regularly, behave well and benefit from a wide range of experiences and that the school values of 'aspiration, resilience, responsibility and teamwork' and groups such as the 'Rydon reps' help build a school where younger pupils aspire to be like their older peers.  The progress that the school has made was highlighted in the report, with inspectors saying that the school, supported by the trust, has moved at pace to establish an ambitious curriculum and that leaders have ensured that the curriculum is carefully sequenced so that pupils build their knowledge well over time.   Inspectors concluded that pupils take pride in the school's welcoming ethos, where anyone and everyone belongs and that this is a direct result of the securely embedded school values that pupils live and breathe. Inspectors recognised that pupils share their views and influence school life through the school council, helping to improve experiences for others.  Staff were also singled out for praise with the report saying that leaders develop positive relationships with families and pupils.   Other comments in the report included:  Pupils make a difference as positive members of the community. Pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education. Pupils display positive attitudes to learning and staff know pupils well. Rydon Primary is an inclusive school. Leaders value strong relationships with families and work closely with them. Parents and carers express support for the school, and positive relationships between staff and parents contribute to pupils’ wellbeing. Parents typically describe the school as a very happy place to be. Danny Brown, Headteacher at Rydon Primary, said:    "We are incredibly proud of this report because it reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment of our pupils and staff. It is particularly pleasing to see Ofsted recognise the progress we have made in developing an ambitious curriculum, our strong personal development offer and the positive attitudes our pupils show every day. The report celebrates what makes Rydon special, our values, our sense of community and our belief that everyone belongs. We see this report as part of our journey and as a springboard to achieve even more for our children going forward.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said:  "This is a fantastic report for Rydon Primary. What stands out most is the culture that has been created, one where pupils are proud of their school and are encouraged to contribute positively to their community. "We are delighted that Ofsted recognised the pace of improvement at the school and the positive impact of the partnership between Rydon Primary and Education South West. We look forward to supporting the school as it continues to build on this success." 

Kingsbridge Community College Comes Together to Champion Wellbeing During Mental Health Awareness Week  Kingsbridge Community College recently marked Mental Health Awareness Week with a wide range of engaging and supportive activities led by the college’s dedicated Sixth Form Mental Health Ambassadors and student leadership team.  Throughout the week, students took part in a variety of events designed to encourage conversation, connection and wellbeing. Activities included a calming yoga session, creative arts activities, a successful bake sale and a series of wellbeing drop-in opportunities for students to access support and talk openly about mental health.  At KCC, mental health education and wellbeing remain a priority throughout the entire academic year. Students are regularly encouraged to understand the importance of looking after their own wellbeing, while also learning how to support others within the college community.  The college’s Sixth Form Mental Health Ambassadors play an important role across the school, mentoring students in years 7 to 11 through valuable one-to-one peer support, as well as leading wellbeing events, initiatives and clubs throughout the year.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  “Mental Health Awareness Week was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the supportive and caring culture we continue to build at KCC. I am incredibly proud of our Sixth Form student leaders and Mental Health Ambassadors for the enthusiasm, compassion and leadership they showed throughout the week. The wellbeing of our students will always remain a key priority, and it was wonderful to see so many students engaging positively with the activities on offer.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “It is inspiring to see students taking such an active role in promoting positive mental health and supporting one another. Initiatives like these demonstrate the strength of the KCC community and the importance of creating environments where every young person feels valued, supported and heard. My thanks go to all staff and students involved in making the week such a success.”

Wynstream Primary School Celebrates Pupil’s BMX Success on International and National Stage  Wynstream Primary School is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of one of its pupils, Oliver Bridle, who is making an exciting impact in the world of BMX racing both in the UK and across Europe.  In the recent school holidays, Oliver travelled to the Netherlands to compete in a European BMX round in Tiel, tackling the challenging track for the very first time. Despite initial nerves, he quickly found his confidence and impressed with his determination and skill, securing an outstanding first-place finish on day one, followed by second place on day two.  Building on this success, Oliver returned to the UK to compete in the opening rounds of the national BMX series in Manchester. Continuing his strong form, he achieved second place on day one before claiming first place on day two, setting a new personal best time. Oliver’s achievements place him in a strong position as he works towards an ambitious goal: qualifying within the top 14 riders nationally in his age group to be considered for selection to represent Great Britain at the 2027 World Championships.  His dedication and passion for the sport reflect the values encouraged at Wynstream Primary School and his success has been a source of pride and inspiration for the whole school community.  Elise Redman, Headteacher at Wynstream Primary School, said:  “We are incredibly proud of Oliver and all he has achieved so far. His commitment and enthusiasm are truly inspiring, and it is wonderful to see him representing both his school and community on such an exciting stage. We look forward to following his journey and cheering him on as he continues to pursue his goals.”  Oliver Bridle said:  "I love BMX because it is a sport that is fun and I have good friends from. I love both the competition and winning, and I've won lots!"