Lipson Co-operative Academy proudly took centre stage at the Department for Education’s ‘RISE Achieving and Thriving Conference’, held at Sandy Park, Exeter last month, a day dedicated to raising attainment and ensuring success for every child across the South West.

The event opened with a vibrant performance from Lipson’s talented school choir and band, whose energy and musical skill set the tone for a day of inspiration and collaboration. Their performance showcased the strength of Lipson’s growing music programme and the confidence and dedication of its students.

The conference brought together secondary school leaders from across the region to hear from keynote speakers including Bridget Phillipson MP, the Secretary of State for Education. Attendees explored strategies to close the attainment gap and support disadvantaged students to thrive.

Lipson headteacher Martin Brook led a breakout workshop on enrichment, sharing how the school is bucking the national trend in outcomes for white working-class boys. His session highlighted the power of enrichment in raising aspirations and achievement.

Siobhan Meredith, executive director of education at the Ted Wragg Trust, facilitated a workshop on transition, offering practical strategies to support pupils from Year 6 into secondary school and beyond.

Other sessions included insights on literacy, parental engagement, and key stage transitions and the day concluded with reflections from Tim Coulson, chair of the RISE Board. The Department for Education’s RISE (Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence) programme is on a mission to break the link between a young person’s background and their future success. 

Backed by a £20 million investment from the DfE, RISE brings together expert advisers to deliver targeted support to schools in need, while also offering universal guidance to all schools across the region. Through bespoke interventions, peer-to-peer collaboration, and the sharing of best practice, RISE is helping schools overcome barriers and raise attainment for every child.

Mr Martin Brook, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy said: “Events like this are vital in bringing educators together to share what works. It was fantastic to see Lipson’s students open the day with such confidence and joy, a true reflection of the school’s commitment to enrichment and opportunity. We’re proud to be part of a community that’s working hard to close the attainment gap and ensure every child can achieve and thrive.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: “Watching Lipson’s students perform for the Secretary of State was a truly proud moment. Their music set the tone for a day focused on equity, aspiration, and opportunity, values we hold at the heart of the Ted Wragg Trust.”