Newton Abbot Students Explore Future Opportunities at Bristol University & Apprenticeship Fair  Sixth form students from South Devon UTC had an inspiring day at the UK University & Apprenticeship Fair held at Bristol Ashton Gate Stadium this month.  The event brought together a wide range of university exhibitors, including renowned Russell Group and modern institutions, alongside apprenticeship providers, giving students the chance to explore a variety of post-18 options.  In addition to the exhibition, students attended expert-led seminars covering key topics such as UCAS personal statements, student finance, degree apprenticeships, and the benefits of apprenticeship pathways.  The fair was aimed at year 12 students starting to plan their next steps in education and careers, and also offered guidance for any undecided year 13 students. Students returned from the event motivated and better informed, with a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them.  Claire Plumb, Headteacher at South Devon UTC, said:  "It was fantastic to see our students engaging with university and apprenticeship providers and taking their first steps towards making informed decisions about their future. The fair provided invaluable insight and inspiration for our sixth formers as they prepare for life beyond the UTC."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "It’s inspiring to see our students actively exploring the wide range of opportunities available after school. Events like the Bristol University & Apprenticeship Fair help young people make informed choices, build confidence, and envision a future full of possibilities."

Teign School Celebrates World Book Day with Creativity and New Reading Initiatives  Students and staff at Teign School have marked World Book Day with a vibrant non-uniform day celebrating reading, creativity, and personal interests.  In line with this year’s ‘National Year of Reading’ theme, ‘Go All In’, students were invited to wear outfits reflecting their favourite books, hobbies, or interests.  The school was filled with a fantastic range of costumes, from beloved literary characters to local sports team kits, showcasing the imagination and enthusiasm of the school community. Top prizes were awarded to standout costumes including The Lorax, a Super Sleuth, and Arthur Kipps. Donations from the day will support the development of the school’s memorial garden as well as book charities, reinforcing the school’s commitment to both reading and community values. World Book Day also provided the perfect opportunity to launch Teign School’s new Reading Ambassador programme. Ten students from years 7 to 10 have been selected to take on the role, giving them a voice in shaping the school’s reading culture. Their first project will be helping to select the next year 6 to year 7 transition book, supporting younger students as they begin their secondary school journey.  Looking ahead, the school is also preparing to launch a student-led reading podcast, further encouraging a love of books and discussion across the school community.  Lucie Wagner, Head of School at Teign School, said:  “It was wonderful to see so many of our students embracing World Book Day with such creativity and enthusiasm. Events like this remind us that reading is not just about books, but about imagination, identity, and connection. We are especially excited to launch our Reading Ambassadors, giving students a real voice in shaping our reading culture and inspiring others to discover a love of reading.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “Creating a strong culture of reading is one of the most powerful ways we can support young people to succeed. It is fantastic to see Teign School bringing reading to life in such an engaging and inclusive way, while also giving students meaningful opportunities to lead and influence.”

Christow Primary Headteacher Recognised in National Teaching Awards Amy Yeo, the headteacher at Christow Primary School has been awarded Bronze Winner status in the The Award for Headteacher of the Year in a Primary School category of the Pearson Awards.   The awards, founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam, celebrate excellence in education and highlight the vital role teachers and schools play in shaping future generations.  Under Amy’s leadership, Christow Primary School has achieved exceptional academic success while maintaining a strong focus on inclusion, wellbeing and community. The school was recently ranked as the fourth best primary school in the country by The Telegraph, reflecting its consistently high standards and outstanding outcomes.  In 2025, 100 percent of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and maths at Key Stage 2, with a high proportion reaching greater depth. Ofsted has also recognised the school’s success, noting that “pupils achieve exceptionally well” as a result of a highly ambitious curriculum.  Beyond academic results, the school has built a culture rooted in respect, inclusion and strong relationships. Feedback from parents, pupils and staff highlights a thriving and supportive environment, with one parent describing the school as a place that “goes above and beyond” and another noting that their children are “very happy and flourishing across the board.”  Amy’s leadership is characterised by trust, transparency and a clear moral purpose. She has developed a strong culture of professional development and collaboration, with staff reporting high levels of pride and enjoyment in their work. Her commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in her own professional learning, as well as the coaching culture embedded across the school.  Christow Primary School is also deeply connected to its local community, with strong partnerships and opportunities that enrich pupils’ experiences, from outdoor learning and sports programmes to wider community engagement.  Ms Amy Yeo, Headteacher at Christow Primary School said:  "This award is a reflection of the incredible staff, pupils and families who make Christow such a special place. We are a small school with a big heart, and I feel very privileged to work alongside a team that is so dedicated to ensuring every child thrives. I am particularly proud that we have been able to achieve such strong outcomes while staying true to our values of inclusion, care and community."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "Amy’s recognition at a national level is thoroughly deserved. She has created something truly exceptional at Christow Primary School, combining outstanding academic outcomes with a deeply nurturing and inclusive culture. Her leadership demonstrates what is possible when high expectations are matched with genuine care and strong relationships. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of Education South West."

Music for Youth Regional Event Hosted at Coombeshead Academy  Coombeshead Academy hosted a prestigious Music for Youth regional event this month. As one of only 35 centres chosen across the entire UK, the school was honored to provide a platform for young musicians from across Devon to showcase their talents.  The event featured a range of incredible performances from various local ensembles, including the Devon Youth Chamber Brass Ensemble, the Devon Youth Jazz Orchestra, and several school and music centre bands from across the region. It was an inspiring day of music, with over 200 young performers coming together to share their passion for music and enrich the local cultural scene.  Organised by the Devon Music Education Hub, the event brought together aspiring musicians from all over the county, creating a unique opportunity for young talent to gain valuable experience. Coombeshead Academy’s own Soul Band was also invited to perform and received feedback from professional mentors. Each performance during the day was listened to and appraised by two Music for Youth mentors, both accomplished musicians in their own right.  The feedback for the Soul Band was exceptionally positive, with the mentors offering encouraging remarks. This could potentially pave the way for an invitation to perform at the Music for Youth National Event in Birmingham later this year, a tremendous opportunity for Coombeshead students to take their musical journey to new heights.  Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy, said:  "It was an incredible honour for Coombeshead Academy to host this prestigious Music for Youth event. To see so many talented young musicians come together and showcase their passion for music was truly inspiring. Our own Soul Band’s performance was exceptional, and we are so proud of their hard work and dedication. We look forward to what the future holds for all of our young musicians and are excited about the possibility of seeing them perform at the national event in Birmingham."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "This event was a fantastic example of the outstanding talent we have here in Devon. Coombeshead Academy’s role in hosting the Music for Youth regional event is a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to excel. We are delighted to see our students get such positive feedback and are thrilled that our Soul Band could represent us at this prestigious event. We wish all our musicians the very best for their future performances."

Dartmouth Pupil Leaders Take the Lead on Climate Change Awareness   Pupils at Dartmouth Academy recently demonstrated their commitment to the environment by leading a school-wide assembly on climate change. The initiative was entirely student-led, giving young leaders the opportunity to raise awareness and inspire their peers.  During the assembly, pupils explored the causes and impacts of climate change, shared practical steps for sustainable living, and encouraged the school community to take action in their daily lives. The presentations were both informative and engaging, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills.   Staff praised the pupils for their initiative and passion, noting that the assembly reflects the school’s ongoing dedication to encouraging  student empowerment, environmental responsibility, and active citizenship.   By putting students at the forefront of discussions on global issues, Dartmouth Academy continues to nurture informed, proactive young people ready to make a positive difference in the world.  Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:  "We are incredibly proud of our pupils for taking the initiative to lead this assembly. Their passion and commitment to environmental issues is inspiring, and it demonstrates the positive impact young people can have when given the platform to lead."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "It’s fantastic to see student leadership in action. The assembly not only raised awareness about climate change but also empowered pupils to take responsibility for their communities and the planet. This is exactly the kind of proactive citizenship we aim to nurture across all our schools."

Teign School Students Thrive in “Your Future Story” Programme  Teign School is celebrating the achievements of its year 7 students taking part in the innovative Your Future Story (YFS) programme, designed to support high-attaining students across the South West. The initiative helps young people explore future educational and career opportunities while building confidence and resilience.  The first cohort at Teign School includes four students, supported by Teacher Champion Matthew Wagner, who provides mentoring and guidance to ensure students reach their full potential.   The programme combines in-school mentoring with visits to leading employers and universities, giving pupils hands-on experiences in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), as well as higher education pathways.   Recent highlights included taking part in a STEM challenge at Spaceport Cornwall and a tour of Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil. Later this year, pupils will visit the University of Bristol and University of Exeter (Penryn Campus). The programme also supports school staff through professional development, offering access to expert research, study visits, and networks that strengthen in-school provision for high-attaining students.   By taking part in Your Future Story, Teign School continues to champion student achievement, aspiration, and personal growth, ensuring young people are equipped to succeed academically and beyond.  Lucie Wagner, Head of School at Teign School, said:   "We are incredibly proud of our pupils for embracing the Your Future Story programme. It is wonderful to see them engaging with new experiences, developing confidence, and thinking ambitiously about their future."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:   "Your Future Story is a fantastic opportunity for high-attaining pupils to broaden their horizons. Teign School’s commitment to supporting these students demonstrates the impact schools can have when encouraging talent and ambition from an early age."

Kingsbridge Students Shine at Rosslyn Park National Rugby Tournament  Students from Kingsbridge Community College delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s prestigious Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens tournament, competing against thousands of pupils from across the country.  The U14 Girls team were the first to take to the field, determined to build on last year’s success and go one step further. They made an exceptional start, securing convincing wins against Oasis Academy and Collegiate to top their group and progress to the Cup competition.  Facing Ivybridge in the first knockout round, the team delivered a dominant performance, winning 36–0 in a fiercely contested match. Their momentum continued into the quarter-finals, where they overcame a strong St Oscar Romero Catholic College side with an impressive 35–21 victory.  In the semi-final, a repeat of last year’s fixture against Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, the girls battled in a closely fought contest, trading tries throughout the match. Despite a determined performance, a late score saw their opponents edge a 19–15 win. Although narrowly missing out on the final, the team were exceptional ambassadors for the college and can be incredibly proud of their achievement.  The U14 Boys also represented KCC with pride and determination. They made a strong start to the tournament with an impressive victory over Pangbourne College, showcasing both skill and confidence.  Their second match against Rodillian Academy proved to be a challenging encounter, with the team demonstrating resilience and determination as they continued to compete strongly throughout. In their final group game, the boys showed great attacking intent and flair, pushing a talented Trinity School, Croydon side all the way in a closely contested match.  This performance capped off an excellent season for the U14 Boys, who have already secured both the South Hams District 7s and 15s titles, as well as an impressive third-place finish at the Devon Schools 7s Finals Day. Staff praised both teams for their commitment, teamwork, and sportsmanship, highlighting the pride they have brought to the college community through their efforts on and off the pitch.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  "We are incredibly proud of both our U14 girls and boys teams. Their determination, teamwork, and resilience were evident in every match they played. To compete at such a high level against schools from across the country and perform so strongly is a fantastic achievement. They have represented Kingsbridge Community College with real pride and integrity, both on and off the pitch."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "It is inspiring to see students from Kingsbridge Community College performing so well. Opportunities like the Rosslyn Park Sevens not only showcase sporting talent but also develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience. Both teams should be proud of their achievements and the way they have represented their school and community."

Coombeshead Academy Students Win National Award for Anti-Racism Song  Students from Coombeshead Academy are celebrating national success after being recognised in the 2026 Show Racism the Red Card School Competition.  Year 10 students Simon Vincent, Molly Nelson, Aaliyah Markman, Harrison Swan, Rosie Curtis and Will Harvey have been selected to receive an award in the Music Category for their original song, Connected. The students have been invited to attend a prestigious awards ceremony, which will take place at a Premier League football ground in May.  The competition is a national initiative, with schools from across the country taking part, making this a significant achievement for the Coombeshead Academy students.  Their success highlights both their creativity and their commitment to promoting equality, inclusion and anti-racism through music.  The whole school community is incredibly proud of their achievement and looks forward to celebrating their success at the upcoming awards ceremony.  Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy, said:  “We are incredibly proud of our students for this outstanding achievement. Their song, Connected, is a powerful reflection of their values and their commitment to promoting equality and inclusion. To be recognised at a national level in such an important competition is a testament to their creativity, teamwork and the strength of their message.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  “This is a fantastic achievement for the students and for the wider school community. At Education South West, we are committed to ensuring our young people not only achieve academically but also develop as thoughtful, responsible citizens. This recognition highlights the impact of student voice and the important role schools play in tackling discrimination and promoting inclusion.”

Local Restaurateur Inspires Dartmouth Pupils  Dartmouth Academy recently welcomed special guest Mitch Tonks, acclaimed chef and owner of The Seahorse and Rockfish in the town, to share his career journey.   Mitch spoke candidly about his path from leaving school to building a successful career in the restaurant industry, offering insights and inspiration to young people considering their future options.  Over a 25-year career as a fishmonger, chef, restaurateur, and CEO, Mitch has become a leading voice for British seafood, sustainability, and hospitality. He is passionate about connecting people with local, sustainable seafood, supporting the UK fishing industry, and championing the role of restaurants as community spaces.   Mitch has also written seven cookbooks, appeared on national TV, and launched innovative initiatives including the Rockfish online seafood market and a range of tinned British fish. He is co-founder of the Devon Environment Foundation and actively mentors the next generation of chefs, helping young people see how passion, dedication, and creativity can shape a successful and meaningful career.  Staff at Dartmouth Academy were particularly proud to host Mitch, whose children previously attended the school, and to offer students a chance to engage directly with someone who has achieved success through passion and perseverance.   The visit formed part of the school’s ongoing commitment to personal development, employability, and community connection, ensuring every pupil is empowered to thrive in the future. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:  "It was inspiring to see our students so engaged with Mitch’s story. Hearing directly from someone who has followed their passion, worked hard, and given back to the community is exactly the kind of experience that motivates our pupils to think about their own futures."  Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:  "Visits like this show the importance of connecting education with real-world experiences. Mitch’s career demonstrates how creativity, resilience, and commitment can lead to remarkable achievements, and we’re proud to bring these opportunities to our students."

Dartmouth Academy Pupils Support Groundbreaking Health Research with University of Exeter  Pupils from Dartmouth Academy have continued their important collaboration with the University of Exeter Medical School as part of the Young Persons Advisory Group (YPAG).  The group, which has been working with researchers for several years, provides valuable insight to help shape projects aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of young people. Pupils contribute to research design, provide feedback on materials, and share perspectives that ensure studies are relevant and accessible to their peers. This month, the Dartmouth pupils helped develop and refine a booklet designed to explain key findings from a review of digital interventions for young people at risk of mental health problems. The final version of the booklet, now available online, reflects the pupils’ input and demonstrates the impact of youth voices in medical research.  The Young Persons Advisory Group continues to play a vital role in bridging the gap between researchers and young people, ensuring that studies are informed by the perspectives of those they aim to support.  For more information and to view the booklet designed by the group, visit: Online Flipbook  Nicola Perrott, Assistant  Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:  “Our pupils have shown incredible commitment and insight through their work with the University of Exeter. Being part of the Young Persons Advisory Group allows them to see how their voices can make a real difference in research that affects young people’s health. It’s inspiring to see their confidence, curiosity and empathy growing as they contribute to such important projects.”  Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said:  “It’s fantastic to see our students actively shaping research that impacts young people across the country. The Young Persons Advisory Group gives them a real voice in projects that matter, helping researchers understand what is important to young people. Their input not only improves the quality of the research but also builds the pupils’ confidence, teamwork and leadership skills. This kind of meaningful engagement demonstrates the power of student voice in making a difference.”