Whipton Barton Federation pupils have been making a splash this term with a series of incredible trips to the National Marine Aquarium, giving them hands-on learning experiences that have enriched their understanding of marine life and ocean conservation.

Reception pupils were the first to embark on an unforgettable adventure to the aquarium, where they had the chance to discover the wonders of the ocean. Their day was filled with engaging challenges, such as finding camouflaged creatures, spotting animals with more than ten legs, and discovering animals with hard shells. The children were thrilled to explore a wide range of sea life, from sharks and octopuses to the cheeky turtle, Friday. The visit culminated in an exciting diving show that left the children in awe of the wonders of the deep.

Thanks to a generous grant from The Northbrook Community Trust, Year 5 pupils also had the opportunity to visit the aquarium as part of their Biomes topic in Geography. This fully funded trip was packed with enriching activities, including an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, a ‘Climate Conundrum’ workshop, and a thrilling virtual reality experience that allowed them to dive into the vibrant world of coral reefs. Pupils explored the effects of carbon dioxide on ocean waters, studied coral up close, and learnt about the vital role of marine biologists and aquarium rangers. The visit also provided invaluable insights into potential careers in marine conservation, sparking curiosity and a passion for environmental stewardship.

As part of the Ted Wragg Trust, Whipton Barton Federation is committed to enriching young people’s educational experiences by offering exciting opportunities that support learning beyond the classroom. These aquarium trips have not only encouraged a love for science but have also raised awareness of the critical need for environmental conservation.

Louise Moretta, Executive Headteacher at Whipton Barton Federation, shared her pride in the pupils’ engagement:

“We are incredibly proud of how curious and enthusiastic our pupils were during these fantastic visits. They had the chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure while gaining invaluable knowledge about the marine world. I would like to extend my thanks to The Northbrook Community Trust for their generous donation, which enabled our Year 5 pupils and teachers to experience what they described as the best school trip ever. Experiences like these are crucial in igniting curiosity and fostering a lifelong love of learning.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to providing enriching experiences that cultivate young people’s curiosity and passion for the world around them. These recent trips to Plymouth Aquarium were an incredible opportunity to blend classroom learning with real-world exploration and have inspired our pupils to think critically about ocean conservation and the importance of protecting our marine ecosystems.”

  

 

Students from Queen Elizabeth’s School (QE) have taken part in a Euroscola session in Strasbourg this term.

As part of the European Parliament’s Ambassador Schools (EPAS) network, the school’s students had the incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of European politics.  

The Euroscola Programme invites students from across Europe to step into the shoes of a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for a day, engaging in debates, negotiations, and voting on real European issues. Students collaborated with their peers from across Europe, exploring critical topics surrounding democracy, human rights, and the future of Europe. 

Queen Elizabeth’s School students participated in a unique Q&A session with Martin Hojsík, Vice-President of the European Parliament and also met with the Head of Unit from the Parliament’s Legal Service. This immersive experience was designed to encourage an understanding of European values and strengthen youth engagement with democratic processes.

At QE, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, they believe that trips and enrichment activities offer not just educational value but a tremendous opportunity to nurture students confidence, ambition and cultural capital. The school aims to provide all students with opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have and take them to places they might not otherwise get to visit.

Ms Paula Smith, Headteacher at Queen Elizabeth’s School said:

“We were absolutely delighted to be part of such an enriching experience in Strasbourg. This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage directly with political figures and to experience the democratic process in action. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event that will undoubtedly shape their understanding of politics and inspire them to become active participants in the democratic process.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“At the Ted Wragg Trust we are committed to providing young people with opportunities that broaden their horizons and allow them to engage with global issues. Taking part in the Euroscola programme was an exceptional opportunity for our students to develop a deeper understanding of the world. We are incredibly proud of the QE students who represented the UK and took part in such a prestigious event.”

 

Marine Academy Plymouth and Marine Academy Primary, which make up the MAP Campus, are excited to announce the launch of a new food co-operative for their school communities.

The co-op, starting this March, will offer families affordable, high-quality food with a focus on sustainability and community involvement. With a cost of just £3 per week, members will receive a weekly bag of nutritious surplus food from partner FareShare Southwest. This innovative initiative is a direct response to Plymouth’s shift to more sustainable models like co-operatives aiming to make healthy food more accessible to all.

Kelly Fritzsche, from Cooperation Town, is leading the food co-op project across Plymouth and has already visited the MAP Campus to talk to families about how to find out more about how the food co-op works and how to get involved.

The food co-op is open to all and encourages inclusivity, with members playing an active role in its operations. Not only will members save money on their weekly grocery shop, but they will also have the opportunity to connect with other members, learn new skills, and access additional support for the cost-of-living crisis.

Marine Academy Plymouth and Marine Academy Primary are both part of the Ted Wragg Trust and offer innovative education and a strong community focus, aiming to encourage both academic excellence and social responsibility.

Spaces are still available in the co-operative and to get involved please contact Rachel Early at: rachel.earley@asap.org.uk

Jennifer Brimming, Principal of Marine Academy Plymouth said:

"The food co-op is about much more than just food — it's about building community. Members will work together to provide each other with affordable, nutritious meals while learning valuable skills along the way. We're proud to be part of a project that not only supports families but also builds a sense of connection within our school community."

Kelly Fritzsche, Plymouth Food Co-op organiser said:

“Food Co-ops are a great way for members to save money on food shopping, meet new people and make friends. This movement is about social action and empowering people, food Co-ops are member run and member owned, we make the difference for ourselves and our families.”

Georgina Reid, Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary said:

"We are incredibly proud to be part of this new food co-op initiative. At Marine Academy Primary, we are committed to creating opportunities that nurture both the academic and social well-being of our pupils and their families, and this initiative is a perfect example of that.”

  

 

 

Schools on the Marine Academy Plymouth Campus, Marine Academy Primary and Marine Academy Plymouth, are delighted to share the success of their Listening Week, which took place from the 17th to the 21st of March.  

This groundbreaking initiative from the two schools, which are part of the Ted Wragg Trust, was held across various venues in St Budeaux and aimed to build meaningful connections within the local community by amplifying the voices of its residents and tackling important issues that impact local families, pupils, and the wider community. 

Listening Week brought together a diverse group of local organisations, including Active Devon, Barnados, Plymouth City Council, and many others, to create an inclusive environment where residents could share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations.  

The week featured a series of workshops, support networks, and community activities, including crafting workshops, and youth-focused engagements, designed to spark dialogue and encourage stronger relationships. The week was designed to ensure that every voice in the St Budeaux community had the opportunity to be heard.  

 Key activities included: 

• Student Ambassadors from multiple schools in the local area sharing their experiences of school life. 

• Community-building workshops for adults and parents. 

• NHS research unit and Plymouth City Bus were out on St Budeaux Square talking to local residents. 

• Engaging events for older adults to promote social inclusion and well-being. 

As part of the initiative, feedback will be collected and analysed with support from Dr Rebecca Carter Dillon, Senior Research Fellow at the Faculty of Health at the University of Plymouth to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities within the St Budeaux community. The insights gathered from Listening Week will be used to develop a comprehensive roadmap aimed at improving services and supporting the community's evolving needs.  

Marine Academy Primary will host a making sense session of all the data collected on the 31st of March from 3:30-5pm and everyone is welcome to join to take a look at the data gathered. If you would like to be involved, please let us know by emailing listeningweek@marineacademy.org,uk. The hope is to then share the full findings at a community event after the Easter Break. 

Georgina Reid Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary said: 

"Listening Week has been a truly transformative experience for our Campus schools and the wider St Budeaux community. It has provided a valuable platform for our residents, families, and pupils to have their voices heard. By encouraging open dialogue, we can better understand the challenges we face and the aspirations we share. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected community across St Budeaux."  

Rachel Earley Community and Engagement Lead at Marine Academy Campus said:   

"Listening Week has been an incredible opportunity to truly connect with our community and understand the diverse experiences and needs of St Budeaux residents. By bringing together local organisations, schools, and individuals, we’ve created a space for meaningful conversations that will help shape the future of our area. It’s been inspiring to see the community come together, and I’m excited to continue working with everyone to ensure we’re addressing the challenges and opportunities that matter most to our families and students." 

  

West Exe School is thrilled to be participating in Art Bytes, a prestigious national art and EdTech programme that encourages creativity and builds cultural capital for students. The programme, which combines an inter-school art competition with a bespoke virtual gallery and in-person celebration events across England, is aimed at Year 5 and Year 9 students. It has proven to nurture talent, raise ambition, and develop vital skills that will benefit students in future employment.

Art Bytes is now in its 12th year and the programme supports not only the development of artistic skills but also mental health and emotional well-being by creating a space for young people to express themselves through art. By engaging with this competition, students are given the chance to showcase their talent, gain confidence, and be part of an inclusive creative community.

The programme culminates in a series of events, including the Art Bytes Virtual Exhibition in June. Once all artwork entries are submitted, the Art Bytes panel of expert judges will shortlist the top three entries from each participating school.  These shortlisted entries will be showcased in the virtual gallery, and an online public vote will open on the 3rd of April. 

The students with the most votes from each school will win a place in the annual virtual exhibition and the opportunity to be regional or national winners. Additionally, the school with the most votes will receive the Community Engagement Award, with a certificate and generous art prizes awarded from Art Bytes sponsors.

West Exe School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is being sponsored to take part in the competition by The Arts Society Exeter. The Arts Society Exeter’s aim is to increase the understanding, knowledge and enjoyment of arts in the broadest sense by holding talks each month and by supporting arts education in the local community.

West Exe would like to encourage everyone to get involved and vote for their favourite artworks to help support young artists and contribute to the success of the programme.  For more information, and to vote visit the Art Bytes website: https://artbytes.co.uk/

Julie Fossey, Headteacher at West Exe School said:

"We are incredibly excited to participate in Art Bytes. This programme offers our students a unique opportunity to display their artistic talents on a national platform while also nurturing their confidence, ambition, and cultural capital. The support from The Arts Society Exeter has been invaluable, and we are proud to be part of this fantastic initiative."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

"We are really proud to support West Exe School’s participation in Art Bytes and grateful for the backing from The Arts Society Exeter. This programme offers students an exceptional opportunity to engage with creativity, develop vital skills for the future, and showcase their talents. We are excited to see our student’s artwork and encourage the whole community to get involved in supporting our young artists when the voting opens.”

    

As part of their House system and charity fundraising efforts some of the amazing Prefect Team at West Exe School recently had the honour of presenting a cheque for £1,475 to Exeter Food Action. 

The funds were raised through events held at the school last year and the school community couldn’t be prouder of the incredible support shown by students, families, and staff in raising this money. 

West Exe School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is committed to supporting local causes and making a positive impact on the community. Exeter Food Action works tirelessly to provide emergency food relief to individuals and families in need, and this contribution will go a long way in helping them continue their important work.

Exeter Food Action started operations in 2011 as a joint community project planned by a small group, Devon and Cornwall Food Association (DCFA Exeter). In 2017 they became Exeter Food Action and now employ one full-time and two part-time members of staff, and have a team of over 50 dedicated volunteers.

They work in partnership with FareShare South West to supply food for their Community Food Members in Exeter, East Devon and Torbay. Their service is free and is financed entirely by grants and donations. Together they distribute food to 67 food banks and community groups in Exeter and across Devon.

Julie Fossey, Headteacher at West Exe School said:

"I am incredibly proud of our students and families for their hard work and generosity.  This donation is a testament to one of our core values at West Exe: community. As a school, we are committed to helping our young people make positive contributions to the world around them, and to strengthening our community.“

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

"Everyone at the trust is thrilled to see the initiative and compassion shown by West Exe students in supporting Exeter Food Action. This is just one example of the positive impact our schools are having on the community, and we look forward to supporting even more charitable projects in the future."