Kingsbridge Students Gear Up for Safer Driving  Students at Kingsbridge Community College have taken part in a road safety workshop this month run by Learn2Live, an organisation which works to highlight the dangers young drivers face.   Representatives from Learn2Live came along to the college to give a presentation. The talk included expert speakers from Local Authority Road Safety Teams, Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, Devon and Cornwall Police, South West Ambulance, and Devon Air Ambulance.  Over the past five years young drivers in Devon and Cornwall have been involved in over 4,800 collisions, this represents 25% of all collisions despite young drivers only representing around 7% of licence holders. To help address this, the workshop was specifically designed to get young people thinking about road safety and to help them better appreciate specific dangers and consequences when on the roads.  Attendees fed back that they gained useful, practical insights into how their behaviour when driving can impact not only their safety but the safety of others.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: "Being a rural college, many of our students are on the road regularly, often driving long distances. This workshop was a vital opportunity for them to understand the real risks and make safer choices behind the wheel."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: "With so many young drivers involved in collisions, it’s crucial we equip our students with practical knowledge. Road safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about protecting lives, and initiatives like this make a real difference."

CareYourWay Becomes Official Friend of Kingsbridge Community College  Kingsbridge Community College is pleased to share that CareYourWay, one of South Devon’s top rated home care providers, is now an official ‘friend’ of the college. The partnership is already providing KCC students with valuable insights into careers in health and social care.  Founded over 20 years ago by Sarah and Manuel Sabater in East Allington, CareYourWay began after the couple recognised the need for compassionate, high quality home care. Their model and service that is rated ‘Outstanding’ with the Care Quality Commission was then in 2021 launched into franchise opportunities across the UK, led by former KCC students Yasmine and Jonathan Sabater. Jonathan, at just 19 years old, became the youngest franchisor in the country. Today, CareYourWay operates 13 franchise offices across the nation, delivering award-winning, person-centred care.  In addition to Yasmine and Jonathan, former KCC students Giles Sabater and Anna Potgieter hold key leadership roles at CareYourWay, driving the business’s national expansion and continuing its commitment to local communities.  As a ‘friend’ of KCC, the CareYourWay team are engaging directly with current students, sharing their experiences and providing practical guidance on post-college pathways. They are also supporting careers activities, offering insights into apprenticeships, employment opportunities, and running workshops to inspire the next generation.  CareYourWay’s achievements have been widely recognised; being named as part of the ‘Best in Franchising’ for 2025, as well as winning one of the highest-regarded awards for the whole of the UK franchising sector at the BFA HSBC British Franchise Awards: ‘Emerging Franchisor of the Year’. In addition, the brand has proudly and consistently been ranked among the Top 20 Home Care Groups in the UK by Homecare.co.uk for the last three years, reflecting the company’s dedication to high-quality, client-centred care.  Through this partnership, KCC students will gain first-hand insight into a growing sector, learn about the variety of career routes available, and benefit from mentorship from experienced professionals who were once in their shoes.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  “Having CareYourWay as a ‘friend’ of the college is a fantastic opportunity for our students. Their team’s journey from KCC students to national business leaders demonstrates the value of ambition, hard work, and community focus. We so appreciate the knowledge and support they are providing to our students.”  Anna Potgieter, Head of Brand & Marketing at CareYourWay, added: “We are thrilled to give back to the college that shaped our early journeys. Meeting students, sharing real experiences, and providing guidance on careers in care is a way for us to inspire and support the next generation.”

Teign School Running Club Featured in TES Teign School is excited to share that their student running club has been featured in TES. The article highlights how a simple idea grew into something far bigger, with positive effects on wellbeing, health, confidence and school culture. The running club began as a small initiative designed to give students and staff an active break in the week. It has since become one of the most talked about parts of school life. The TES feature explores how shared movement and time outdoors have helped students re energise, build resilience and find joy in physical activity. Staff have also benefited from taking part and connecting with students in a relaxed and supportive setting. We are proud to see this celebrated nationally and invite you to read the article in full.Read the full TES piece here: https://www.tes.com/magazine/analysis/secondary/how-school-running-club-proved-success

Dartmouth Pupils Help Shape National Digital Mental Health Resource  Pupils from Dartmouth Academy have continued their important work this month with the University of Exeter Medical School as part of the Young Persons Advisory Group.  The group has been collaborating with researchers for several years, sharing their insights to help shape projects aimed at improving young people’s health and wellbeing.  This term, the school welcomed Helena Traill, who is leading a national project to create a digital mental health resource for young people. Helena and her colleague Camilla invited the group to contribute ideas on the design and content of the new platform, ensuring it reflects the voices and experiences of young people across the country.  During the interactive session, students used art supplies to explore creative concepts and share their thoughts on how digital tools can best support mental health and wellbeing.  The Young Persons Advisory Group at Dartmouth Academy continues to make a real impact, giving students a platform to influence research and innovation that benefits their generation and beyond.  Nicola Perrott, Assistant  Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:  “It’s fantastic to see our students playing an active role in shaping national projects that truly matter to young people. Their creativity, honesty, and insight help ensure that resources like this are meaningful, inclusive, and effective.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said:  “This collaboration shows the power of student voice in real world research. By working alongside the University of Exeter, our young people are helping to create resources that will make a genuine difference to the mental health and wellbeing of others. It’s inspiring to see their ideas being valued at a national level.”

Kingsbridge Primary Sparks a Love of Books with New Family Storytime Initiative  The community hub at Kingsbridge Primary School has launched an exciting new initiative to inspire a love of reading among local families.  Led by assistant headteacher Polly Gallagher, weekly Storytime Sessions are now running in partnership with The MotherBorn Collective and are designed to help parents and carers discover the magic of reading with their children from an early age.  The first session took place at the start of November and was a huge success, featuring interactive storytelling, puppets, props, and plenty of imagination. Toddlers and their families were captivated as stories were brought vividly to life, creating an atmosphere of fun, laughter, and learning.  Research consistently shows that children who are read to regularly develop stronger literacy skills and a lifelong love of learning. Through the new sessions the hub aims to support families across the area to experience these benefits first-hand.  Polly Gallagher, Assistant Headteacher at Kingsbridge Primary School, said:  “Reading together from an early age has such a powerful impact on a child’s development, it builds language, imagination, and emotional connection. These sessions are about more than just storytime; they’re about helping families make reading a fun part of everyday life.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  “This is a wonderful initiative that truly reflects the community spirit of our schools. By sharing their expertise, Kingsbridge Primary is helping to give every child the best possible start in life through the joy of reading.”

Babcock International Inspires Next Generation of Engineers at South Devon UTC  South Devon UTC has welcomed the ‘Emerging Talent External Engagement Team’ from Babcock International to present to all Year 10 engineering students this term.  During the visit, students learned in detail about Babcock’s history, operations, and the exciting work experience and apprenticeship opportunities available. The session encouraged active participation, with many students asking questions and several staying behind to speak one-on-one with the team and two current Babcock apprentices.  This engagement has proven highly successful in the past. Last year, two UTC students secured places on Babcock’s highly competitive work experience programme, out of only 40 spots available across the South West. One of these students is now preparing to apply for an apprenticeship after completing Year 11.  The session provided students with valuable insights into careers in engineering and highlighted the strong links between South Devon UTC and leading industry partners.  Babcock is an international defence company providing support and product solutions to enhance their customers’ defence capabilities and critical assets.  Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said:  “Visits like this are invaluable for our students. Meeting industry professionals and hearing about real-world engineering opportunities opens their eyes to the exciting paths available after school. We’re proud of the engagement shown by our Year 10s and look forward to seeing some of them follow in these footsteps.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “This session highlights the strength of our links with local and national employers. Giving students the chance to interact directly with Babcock apprentices and staff inspires ambition and shows them the possibilities that come from combining technical skill with dedication and curiosity.”

East Allington Primary School Hosts Multi-Generational Fun Run  East Allington Primary School  hosted a spectacular fun run this term bringing together pupils, families, and the wider community for a day full of laughter and team spirit.  The sun shone as runners of all ages took to the course, from the school’s youngest pupils running their very first race, to parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents joining in. This year, the event featured an incredible four generations of participants, highlighting the school’s strong community spirit.  The fun run showcased perseverance, friendship, and the joy of taking part. Children and adults alike displayed determination and sportsmanship, whether running, jogging, walking, or cheering on friends and family. The atmosphere was electric, with spectators encouraging every participant across the finish line.  The school would like to thank all those who helped organise the event, from setting up and running stalls to baking cakes and manning the route.  Liam Fielding, Executive Headteacher at East Allington Primary School, said:  “What a wonderful day for East Allington. Seeing pupils, families, and friends of all ages come together with such energy and joy was truly inspiring. The fun run perfectly captures the values of perseverance and friendship we hold dear.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “This event perfectly reflects what Education South West schools are all about, bringing people together, celebrating achievement, and building strong community links. East Allington has once again shown that learning and community spirit go hand in hand.”

Devon Pupils Become Citizen Scientists in National Nature Parks Project  Children from Stoke Fleming, Blackawton, and Christow Primary Schools have become citizen scientists through the national education nature parks project, an initiative led by the Natural History Museum in London.  As part of the project, pupils explored their school grounds to identify wildlife habitats and record their findings on the nature parks national database. The data will be used by scientists at the Natural History Museum to help build a clearer picture of how school sites across the country can support spaces for nature.  The project comes at a critical time. England is recognised as one of the most nature depleted countries in the world, and experts agree that simply sustaining what remains is not enough and that regeneration is vital. The national education nature parks initiative aims to empower schools to understand and enhance their natural environments, starting with mapping and monitoring what already exists on their grounds.  Momentum for the project will continue as pupils develop ideas to make their school sites even more nature friendly, taking active roles in designing and implementing initiatives that support biodiversity. Through this, they are not only contributing valuable data to national research but also becoming young guardians of wildlife and champions for environmental regeneration.  Education South West aims for every school in the trust to embark on this nature recovery journey during this academic year, creating a legacy of environmental awareness and stewardship across its school communities.  Tom Pether, Sustainability, Climate and Environment Education Resource Lead at Education South West, said:  “It’s inspiring to see our pupils so engaged with nature and science. By exploring their school grounds and recording their findings, they are contributing real data to a national research project and helping to shape how schools across the country can support biodiversity. Projects like this empower children to see that they can make a real difference, not just locally, but nationally.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “This is a fantastic example of how education can connect learning with action. Our pupils aren’t just studying the environment, they’re actively helping to protect and restore it. We’re incredibly proud of the enthusiasm shown by our schools and look forward to seeing every Education South West school take part in this vital nature recovery journey.”

Rotary Club Supports Pupils with Mock Interviews at Dartmouth Academy  Pupils in Year 11 at Dartmouth Academy recently took part in mock job interviews, supported by dedicated volunteers from the local Rotary Club, providing valuable insight into future careers and post-school aspirations.  The interviews offered pupils the opportunity to discuss their ambitions, receive feedback, and think confidently about the next steps in their education and career paths.  The school would like to sincerely thank all Rotary members for giving their time, expertise, and encouragement, which made a real difference in inspiring students and helping them prepare for the future.  Rotary volunteers praised the Year 11 pupils, commenting:  “...had a clear understanding of what he wants to do and how to get there. He should do well.” “Very impressive. She is a pupil leader and I can see why. She has a clear vision of her future career. She will do very well. A future leader.” “A confident and positive young man.” The overall feedback highlighted an aspirational and ambitious year group, with pupils demonstrating confidence, clarity, and strong leadership potential.  The school looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Rotary Club and other local community groups to provide enriching experiences that prepare students for life beyond the classroom.  Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:  “We are incredibly grateful to the Rotary Club for supporting our pupils in this way. Their generosity and commitment help our young people think seriously about their futures and give them the confidence to succeed.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  “It’s fantastic to see our young people engaging so positively with the local community. The Rotary Club’s support gives pupils invaluable insight, helping them build confidence, ambition, and the skills they need to succeed in their future careers. Experiences like this are what truly prepare young people for real life.”

Blackawton Pupils Press Ahead with Autumn Apple Day  Pupils and staff at Blackawton Primary School have been celebrating autumn with a day full of community spirit, creativity, and hands-on learning.  The school’s much loved ‘Apple Day’ returned this term, bringing together pupils from across the school to make fresh, delicious apple juice. Families and friends kindly donated apples for the event, ensuring there was plenty of fruit to go around.  The school’s gardening club also joined in the fun, baking mouth watering apple crumbles. Even the school’s compost worms benefited from the festivities, enjoying the leftover apple pulp.  As the sunny autumn evenings continue, pupils have been busy tidying up the school garden after what has been a bumper year for crops. The school’s fruit and vegetables have flourished, and with the support of the local community,  who have been purchasing produce from the Blackawton Village Shop, the school has been able to reinvest in new equipment and plants.  Funds raised have helped to buy a small classroom stove, apple peelers, cooking ingredients, and bright bedding plants. The school has also planted three new bee-friendly plants to help support vital pollinators in the school garden. Next on the horizon for the budding young gardeners are Christmas chutneys, which will be available to purchase later this term.  Looking ahead, Blackawton Primary is set to embark on its next big project as part of the National Education Nature Park Programme, which will see pupils mapping biodiversity across the school grounds. Through creativity and collaboration, pupils will design ways to improve the school’s outdoor spaces for both children and wildlife.  Liam Fielding, Headteacher at Blackawton Primary School, said:  “It’s been wonderful to see our pupils so engaged with the world around them, from understanding where food comes from to exploring how small actions can make a big difference to nature. Apple Day has become a real highlight of the year for our school and community.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “Blackawton Primary is a fantastic example of how learning extends far beyond the classroom. The school’s Apple Day and gardening projects connect children with nature, community and sustainability, all while building valuable life skills. It’s wonderful to see pupils so inspired by hands-on learning and proud of what they’ve achieved together.”