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  • Feeding Families, Strengthening Bonds: MAP Campus Introduces Sustainable Food Co-Op

    Published 27/03/25

    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.”

    Poster detailing arrangement for Food Co-op  A collage of photographs of the food provided including fresh fruit and vegetables

     

     

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  • Local Role Models Empower Sidmouth College Girls for Career Success

    Published 25/03/25

    Students from Sidmouth College have started taking part in Empowering Girls mentoring sessions this term. A selection of Year 9 girls are working with inspirational local women who have volunteered their time for six weeks to support the school’s developing Careers Programme. 

    The aim is to have the programme running throughout the year so that as many girls as possible can take part and benefit from the mentors skills and experience.

    The mentors hope to build up the girls' communication skills and confidence to help them while they are still at school and in the future. The mentoring arrangement can also lead to work experience placements when they are in Year 10.

    The mentors for this programme represent a wide variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, law, and project management. They include:

    • Vicky Friedlander, Divisional Director – Investment Manager
    • Carolyne Baker, Process Improvement Consultant
    • Bernice Williams, Manager - Livewest
    • Denese Molyneux, Financial Planner
    • Kelly Louise Preece, University Manager
    • Hannah Barnard, Alumni/Healthcare Manager
    • Jemma Norris, Remedial Therapist
    • Ellie Axton, Project Management, Coreus
    • Amy Lavers, Partner and Solicitor at Tozers

    The Empowering Girls programme has been designed to support girls with their confidence, raise aspirations and provide students with positive female role models.

    Sidmouth College, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has a strong careers programme with an emphasis on providing information and increasing self-awareness and decision-making. The programme begins in Year 7 and continues throughout students’ time at the College, supported by the Careers and Work Related Learning Co-ordinator. Staff encourage students to look carefully at their own abilities and preferences when making choices about the future and support students to work towards their future goals.

    Mrs Lisa Whitworth, Headteacher at Sidmouth College said:

    “We are thrilled to have such an incredible group of women involved in this programme. Their guidance and support will have a lasting impact on the girls, helping them to develop the skills they need to succeed, both at school and in their future careers.”

    Moria Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “This initiative is a fantastic way to give young girls the tools they need to thrive. The mentors are not only sharing their expertise but also offering a vision of what these students can achieve with hard work and determination. We look forward to seeing this programme grow and empower more students in the years to come.”

    Local women speaking to students sat at table Local women speaking to students sat at table Local women speaking to students sat at table

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  • Children from Marine Academy Plymouth sat around a table in the meeting room.

    Marine Academy Plymouth Campus Launches ‘Listening Week’ to Build Connections Across St Budeaux Community

    Published 24/03/25

    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." 

    Plymouth City Bus and Plymotion sat at tables ready to speak to people  4 people stood in hall of tables ready to speak to people

    Children from Marine Academy Plymouth sat around a table in the meeting room.

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  • Children wearing red clothes for red nose day

    Devon Students Raise Funds for Red Nose Day

    Published 24/03/25

    Students across Devon have been raising funds for Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day appeal which took place on Friday 21st March.

    Sidmouth College, Exwick Heights Primary School, Isca Academyand the Whipton Barton Federation, all part of the Ted Wragg Trust, have been fundraising through a variety of activities.

    Over at Isca Academy students were encouraged to wear something red in exchange for a £1 donation and at Exwick Heights there was a non uniform day with pupils invited to come in wearing their most fabulous party clothes!  

    Sidmouth College also held a mufti day in exchange for a donation and the Student Council held a bake sale which raised £100.60.  To raise some extra money the Sixth Form organised a Staff vs Students Dodgeball competition which raised over £50. In total the college has raised £700.  

    At Whipton Barton staff set up a photo booth and invited families to come along and enjoy taking pictures.  Laughter filled the air as staff, parents, and children struck their best (and silliest!) poses in our fantastic booth! 

    Red Nose Day supports local community organisations and brilliant change-makers here in the UK and across the globe.

    Donations help fill the shelves of baby banks, community food centres, fund vital community-led services like health workers, local youth safe-spaces, and ensure safe passage for people escaping danger.

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    "It's truly inspiring to see students from across our schools uniting to support such a deserving cause. Red Nose Day provides a fantastic opportunity for our students to enjoy themselves, raise funds, and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community."

    3 children in a fun blow up frame wearing colorful glasses for red nose day. Holding blow up guitars.  Child wearing a red nose holding a blow up guitar   lots of children stood behind a blow up frame holding blow up guitars and wearing funky outfits for red nose day.

    3 children in a fun blow up frame wearing colorful glasses for red nose day  Students from Sidmouth College holding number up on red card that shows how much they raised for red nose day. £100.60  Children wearing red clothes for red nose day

    Children in a hall playing sport

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  • Eight West Exe Students holding up their artwork in their art room at school

    West Exe School Joins National Art Programme, Art Bytes, Celebrating Creativity and Cultural Capital

    Published 20/03/25

    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.”

    Eight West Exe Students holding up their artwork in their art room at school   Six West Exe Students holding up their artwork in their art room at school Five West Exe Students holding up their artwork in their art room at school   Two West Exe Students holding up their artwork in their art room at school

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  • Moira Marder CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust sitting with children at desk learning.

    Celebrating Inclusion: Ted Wragg Trust Shortlisted for Two National Education Awards

    Published 19/03/25

    The Ted Wragg Trust has been shortlisted for two national education awards. The trust which runs eighteen schools across Devon has been shortlisted for the SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) award at the MAT Excellence Awards, as well as the Best Practice in Inclusive Education Award at the Education Business Awards.

    The MAT Excellence Awards give trusts across the UK the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of their schools, students and staff and the positive impact they have on their local community. They allow trusts to showcase their expertise and share their knowledge with peers. The awards ceremony will be held later this year in London.

    The Education Business Awards also celebrate the outstanding achievements and commitment of schools and academies across the UK. Sponsored by Cornerstone and supported by the Department for Education, the awards have been recognising the achievements of state and independent schools across the country since 2009.

    At the Ted Wragg Trust, staff are committed to helping children with SEND access a broad curriculum and receive the support they need to thrive. At the core of this is ensuring that all students are valued for the contribution they make and feel positive about themselves. All children are taught the skills they need to be emotionally literate, safe, connected and successful and staff access the highest quality continuous professional development to make this possible.

    The Ted Wragg Trust have developed their own SEND strategy and have worked tirelessly to ensure that children’s needs are identified accurately and early. This led to the development of the trust’s speech and language team (SaLT) as staff recognised that unmet speech and language needs were impacting pupils and their learning experiences. The SaLT team now screen all Reception and Year 7 children and provide 1:1 and small group intervention.

    This year the trust has also introduced their Emotional Literacy and Wellbeing Strategy. Social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) is the highest area of identified need within the trust with over 1,200 children having this identified as their primary area of need. They have also developed a strategy on mental health and wellbeing underscoring their belief in a whole-school approach to mental health. The strategy, which has been influenced by their family of schools and their local communities, aims to ensure every child is taught the skills they need to be emotionally literate, self-aware, and mentally well, helping to create a supportive, healthy learning environment across all schools.

    Ted Wragg Trust schools include All Saints Academy Plymouth, Cranbrook Education Campus, Exwick Heights Primary, Honiton Community College, Isca Academy, Lipson Academy, Marine Academy Primary, Marine Academy Plymouth, Queen Elizabeth’s School, St James School, St Luke’s Church of England School, Sidmouth College, West Exe School, Exmouth Community College, Tor Bridge High and Whipton Barton.

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “We are hugely proud of our students, staff and families who work tirelessly together to make sure our SEND students have the best possible experience, and this shortlisting is testament to this collective ambition and dedication. We know that the SEND landscape is increasingly difficult, but as a trust we are committed to continuing to innovate and empower our schools to create supportive environments where every student can thrive.”

    Moira Marder CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust sitting with children at desk learning.

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  • A Helping Hand: West Exe Students Serve Up Support for Exeter Food Action

    Published 19/03/25

    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."

    Students presenting donation to Food Action

     

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  • Exwick Heights Pupils Enjoy a Day of Learning and Adventure at Bicton Park

    Published 18/03/25

    Exwick Heights Primary School have had an exciting and educational day at Bicton Park and Botanical Gardens this term, where they took part in a variety of engaging activities as part of their ‘Sow and Grow’ workshop. The children had a wonderful time learning about the fascinating world of plants, gardening, and nature.

    With over 64 acres to explore spanning nearly 300 years of gardening history, Bicton Park is home to many rare and beautiful species, collected from around the world.

    During the visit, pupils had the opportunity to plant their own sunflower seeds, gaining hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the growing process. The children also embarked on a scenic train ride around the park, exploring the different plant houses and gaining insight into the diverse range of plants that call the gardens home. To round off the day, they showcased their artistic talents by creating their own botanical drawings, capturing the beauty of the plants they encountered.

    The trip not only provided educational value but also gave the students a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and develop a deeper appreciation for the environment. The school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, aspires for pupils to achieve academic excellence and personal empowerment and this is underpinned by their values of kindness, curiosity, and determination.

    Mrs Gemma Wills, Headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School said:

    “We’re so proud of how our Year 3 children embraced the day, showing both curiosity and respect for the environment. The trip to Bicton Park was a fantastic way to bring their learning to life, and the children’s enthusiasm and engagement were truly inspiring. A special thank you to all the parent volunteers who helped ensure the day ran so smoothly – we couldn’t have done it without you!”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “I am so pleased to see pupils gaining such valuable hands-on learning experiences. Visits like these bring education to life and help to inspire children to become lifelong learners. Everyone at the trust is grateful to Bicton Park and the parent volunteers for helping make this such a memorable and enriching experience for the pupils.”

    Students planting sunflower seeds into pots Students at Bicton Park Students planting sunflower seeds into pots

     

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  • Isca Academy Links Up with Exeter Science Centre

    Published 18/03/25

    Students at Isca Academy were treated to an unforgettable British Science Week event as they welcomed Drs. Natalie Whitehead and Alice Mills from the Exeter Science Centre, alongside a team of academics from Exeter University, on Thursday, 13th March. 

    The visit brought the “Our World from Space” project to the school, offering an exciting exploration into the crucial role of UK space science in the health and sustainability of our planet.

    The event, designed to celebrate British Science Week and its theme of ‘Change and Adapt,’ allowed students to engage in a variety of interactive activities focused on space technology, satellites, and their real-world applications in tackling global challenges. From environmental sustainability and weather prediction to understanding the impacts of climate change, the hands-on experiences gave students an insight into how space science is key to addressing some of the most pressing issues on Earth.

    This event is a part of the Exeter Science Centre’s wider mission to engage the public with the latest scientific research, particularly through their Future Researchers in Schools programme. The visit also reflects Isca Academy’s commitment to excellence in STEM education, following their impressive science results in the summer of 2024, where 71.6% of students achieved a grade 4 or above in science, significantly surpassing national averages.

    The “Our World from Space” event is part of the Futures: A Festival of Discovery for the South West initiative, which brings researchers from the University of Exeter into local schools to share their expertise and inspire the next generation of scientists and researchers.

    The science curriculum at Isca Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is designed to help students develop critical thinking, build on observations, and ask insightful questions, so they gain a deep understanding of the world around them. Practical activities allow students to apply their knowledge, while lessons link scientific ideas to real-world applications, including discussions about STEM careers and current science news. By the end of their studies, students leave Isca not only prepared for further academic challenges but also with a greater understanding of the relevance of science in everyday life.

    Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

    “We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements in science, and this event was the perfect way to bring those successes to life. The interactive sessions with experts in the field inspired our students and helped them connect what they’re learning in the classroom with cutting-edge research. It’s experiences like these that shape the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to providing opportunities to bring the curriculum to life beyond the classroom, including offering our students chances to engage with leading experts and cutting-edge research. The ‘Our World from Space’ event is a prime example of how we aim to inspire scientific curiosity. It’s fantastic to see our students exploring the vital role of space science in addressing global challenges, and we are incredibly proud of the innovative work happening at Isca Academy.”

      Students learning about space science 

     

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  • Orchestrating Success: Lipson Co-Operative Academy Hosts Captivating Concert with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

    Published 13/03/25

    Students at Lipson Co-operative Academy were treated to a captivating afternoon this term, as members of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra visited the school’s Muse space for a unique and enriching musical experience. 

    The orchestra engaged Year 10 and 11 students with live performances that spanned a range of musical styles and eras, allowing students to gain first-hand insight into the diverse world of music.

    The event also featured a collaborative composition activity, giving students the chance to contribute their own ideas and work alongside professional musicians. The inspiring afternoon was further enhanced by the presence of students from several other schools across Plymouth and Devon, who joined Lipson for this unforgettable event, organised by the Devon Music Education Hub.

    The music department Lipson Co-operative Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is a dynamic and inclusive department, where students engage with music through the innovative Musical Futures approach, focusing on practical application and diverse music-making. 

    Students have access to a wide range of ensembles, including choirs, big bands, and musical theatre, to develop their performance skills. For those looking to excel, the Music Academy provides opportunities to learn an instrument from scratch and practice daily. Additionally, individual and small group lessons with tutors are available on various instruments.

     Mr Martin Brook, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy said:

    "It was an absolute pleasure to welcome the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra to our school. Our students were both educated and entertained by this incredible musical experience. It’s so important to expose young people to the arts in such an interactive way, and we are grateful to the Devon Music Education Hub for organising this wonderful event."

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    "This performance was a brilliant example of the power of collaboration and creativity in education. The opportunity for students to engage directly with professional musicians and explore music across genres is invaluable. We are incredibly proud of how our students embraced the experience, and it’s moments like these that truly enrich their learning."

    Photograph of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra playing for students Photograph of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra playing for students

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  • Year 7 and 8  students at West Exe School taking part in hands-on physics activities inside classroom

    Exeter Students Aim for the Stars with the National Space Centre

    Published 11/03/25

    Year 7 and 8  students at West Exe School took part in an exciting and hands-on physics enrichment activity this term, thanks to the National Space Academy. 

    The young scientists designed and launched rockets, testing their flight ability and timing how far they traveled before landing.  The day was an inspiring opportunity for students to engage with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects and experience the thrill of real-world science.  The event was a resounding success, inspiring a new generation of future scientists and space enthusiasts!

    The National Space Academy  was created with the ambition to integrate space science—encompassing exploration, astronomy, and satellite applications—into school science curriculums.  Its aim is to boost student attainment, support teachers with additional resources, and guide young people towards careers in science and engineering. 

    Since its inception in 2008, the academy has grown from a regional programme in the East Midlands to a national initiative, now working with over 30 team members across the UK and internationally, including the European Space Agency.  Founded by Prof Anu Ojha, OBE, the academy continues to promote the belief that science education transcends boundaries, with space science offering global solutions to global challenges.

    At West Exe School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the science curriculum is carefully sequenced to help students develop a deep understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, with a focus on revisiting key concepts and building upon prior knowledge. 

    The curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, while encouraging students to see the value of science in their everyday lives.  With a passionate and experienced team, West Exe offers practical experiments, STEM enrichment activities, and bespoke learning materials to support students' learning. The school’s commitment to science education is reflected in the success of its graduates, many of whom go on to study at prestigious institutions or pursue careers in fields like medicine.

    Julie Fossey, Headteacher at West Exe School said:

    “It was fantastic to see our students diving into the world of physics in such an exciting and practical way. These kinds of activities not only bring learning to life but also inspire our students to pursue future careers in STEM, possibly as future scientists, engineers, or even astronauts!"

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “This enriching experience is exactly what we aim to provide across our trust – opportunities for our students to engage with learning in a hands-on, interactive way.  STEM education is vital for shaping the innovators of tomorrow, and this rocket science activity was a perfect example of how to make learning memorable."

    Year 7 and 8  students at West Exe School taking part in hands-on physics activities inside classroom

    Year 7 and 8  students at West Exe School taking part in hands-on physics activities outside   Year 7 and 8  students at West Exe School taking part in hands-on physics activities outside

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  • All Saints Academy Plymouth students from the Mindfulness Club, recently taking part in a community litter pick

    All Saints Academy Students Take Action in Litter Pick Initiative

    Published 11/03/25

    Last November All Saints Academy Plymouth (ASAP) proudly opened the Burrington Community Hub, an exciting space designed to support both students and the local community. Since its opening, the hub has hosted a variety of activities, including a groundbreaking partnership with Clean Our Patch CIC, which has transformed the school into a litter-picking hub.   

    The initiative has seen students and local residents come together to tackle the growing issue of litter, demonstrating their love for the community.  One group of determined students, all members of the school’s Mindfulness Club, recently took part in a community litter pick, collecting a remarkable 11 bags of rubbish.  

    Among the fascinating finds were a drink can dating back to before the 1970s, a carrier bag from the 1990s, and a chocolate wrapper from the 1980s, showing just how long litter can linger in the environment. 

    Hope Corbin, a Year 7 student, shared her thoughts, "Every little bit helps, together we can make our community cleaner and greener."  Hope and her peers have been integral in the litter-picking efforts, working together with local residents to ensure their community remains a safe and beautiful place to live.  

    All Saints Academy Plymouth, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has a clear commitment to environmental sustainability and staff will continue to encourage students to take part in community-driven initiatives which make an ongoing impact in their local area.  The school’s active involvement in litter picking is just one of many ways they are building a sense of responsibility and pride within their students. 

    Scott Simpson Horne, Headteacher at All Saints Academy Plymouth said: 

    "I am incredibly proud of our students for their enthusiasm and commitment to making a positive impact.  This initiative shows their passion for their local area, and it's inspiring to see them not just talk about making a difference but actively taking part in it. We look forward to future opportunities for our students to continue contributing to their community and the legacy of our local area." 

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: 

     "At the Ted Wragg Trust we believe in empowering students to take ownership of their community.  This partnership with Clean Our Patch CIC is a fantastic example of how students can actively contribute to their local environment and gain valuable skills along the way.  I’m so proud of the work these students are doing, and I can’t wait to see how they continue to lead these important initiatives in the future." 

    All Saints Academy Plymouth students from the Mindfulness Club, holding a banner   

    All Saints Academy Plymouth students from the Mindfulness Club, recently taking part in a community litter pick  All Saints Academy Plymouth students from the Mindfulness Club, recently taking part in a community litter pick

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