Creativity flowed at Tor Bridge High this term as visiting poet Rozalie Hilton worked with students to help unleash their inner bards.

Year 7 students took part in an interactive workshop where they explored different techniques, played with language, and crafted their own original pieces. Several young writers even stepped forward to perform their poems aloud.

The visit was part of the Young Poet Laureate Programme, created by the National Poetry Centre with the National Literacy Trust and supported by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage. The programme aims to inspire a new generation of young poets and build confidence through creative expression.

The session at Tor Bridge, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, also supported the school’s English curriculum, which encourages students to think independently, find their own voice, and use literature to explore their individuality and make sense of the world around them.

Tracy Stephenson, Headteacher at Tor Bridge High, said:

“It was fantastic to see our students so engaged. Rozalie’s visit gave them the chance to try something new and see what they’re capable of. We’re incredibly proud of their courage and creativity, and we’re grateful to Rozalie for helping them find fresh ways to express themselves.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:

“It’s inspiring to see students at Tor Bridge High discovering their own voices, exploring their creativity, and experiencing firsthand how poetry can help them understand themselves and connect with the world around them. Thank you to the Young Poet Laureate Programme for offering our students this opportunity.”

Pupils at Cranbrook Education Campus have been putting their problem-solving skills to the test in the international Bebras Challenge.

Scores of pupils from years 5–10 took part, gaining a real taste of computational thinking in action.

The Bebras Challenge introduces computational thinking to students across the globe. In 2025, over 2.5 million students from 85 countries took part, making it the world’s biggest computer science competition. 

The challenge features a series of logic and problem-solving puzzles designed to stretch students’ thinking, develop creativity and build computational skills. It gives pupils the chance to tackle real-world-style problems in a fun and engaging way.

At Cranbrook Education Campus, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the curriculum is designed to be diverse and engaging, building character, curiosity and essential life skills. Computing and maths work together to develop confident, creative problem-solvers with strong logical and digital skills.

Stephen Farmer, Head of Campus at Cranbrook Education Campus, said: “Our pupils threw themselves into the challenge with real enthusiasm. Watching them approach complex problems intently has been fantastic, and we cannot wait to see their results.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “It’s fantastic to see Cranbrook pupils taking part in a global challenge that builds the confidence and ambition we want for every young person across our trust. Opportunities like this help pupils see just how far their skills can take them.”

 

Students at Tor Bridge High have taken part in industry-style mock interviews with recruitment specialists from global defence company Babcock International Group (Babcock).

The session gave sixth formers a realistic taste of the recruitment process as they begin planning their future careers. Working through authentic interview questions used by Babcock, the interviewers challenged students to think on their feet and present themselves professionally under pressure.

Each student received personalised, practical feedback to build confidence and improve performance in real-world interviews.

Tor Bridge High said the experience was “invaluable” in preparing students for the next steps beyond school and especially timely, with Babcock opening applications for many of their highly competitive apprenticeships this month.

Part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the school focuses on career-focused education, providing practical opportunities and guidance to help students plan their futures with confidence. This is strengthened by their long-standing partnership with Babcock, which opens up a wide range of possibilities for students.

Tracy Stephenson, Headteacher at Tor Bridge High, said:

"Our partnership with Babcock gives our students real-world experience they wouldn’t get in the classroom. Their team provided invaluable insight into the recruitment process, and the guidance and encouragement they offered have really boosted our sixth formers’ confidence as they look to take the next steps in their careers."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:

"Opportunities like this make a real difference, helping our students see what’s possible and giving them the skills to succeed. Collaborations with companies like Babcock can change lives and inspire our young people to aim high."

Kathryn Purse, External Engagement Advisor from Babcock’s Devonport facility, added: “Facilitating opportunities like these mock interviews at Tor Bridge High is vital in preparing students for real workplace scenarios and helping them build confidence for their future careers. By supporting and inspiring young people to explore the breadth of specialist STEM roles available, we are investing in the next generation of talent and strengthening the link between education and industry.”

There are a number of fantastic apprenticeship opportunities available at Babcock starting in 2026 – check out their website for further information Apprenticeships · Babcock Early Careers

 

   

 

 

Pupils from Marine Academy Primary have been making the most of their coastal location this term with a series of exciting sailing days, discovering the sea and its wildlife.

The children sailed on the Johanna Lucretia, learning about seaweed, examining marine life under a microscope, and helping to pull up the stay sail and steer the tall ship.

The trips are designed to encourage students to push themselves out of their comfort zones while spotting marine life and local landmarks along the coast.

The days were organised by The Island Trust, a Plymouth-based charity that has been motivating young people through sailing for 50 years. Participants learn practical skills, build confidence, and develop teamwork and leadership abilities.

Marine Academy Primary, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, aims to help pupils grow into curious, independent, and responsible citizens. Sailing trips like these give them a chance to build resilience, explore the natural world, and learn how to care for it.

Georgina Reid, Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary, said:

“It’s been fantastic to see our pupils throw themselves into the sailing trips. Thanks to The Island Trust, they’ve not only had fun discovering the sea and its wildlife but also grown in confidence and resilience along the way.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust, said:

“Trips like these give pupils the chance to challenge themselves, try new things, and return to school with fresh confidence and a sense of achievement. We’re proud to support experiences that help young people grow and thrive.”

  

  

Pupils from Cranbrook Education Campus (CEC) rolled up their sleeves to plant more than 90 trees across the school grounds this term.

The Eco Team and the Pay It Forward Team came together for the project, working side by side to dig holes, place saplings, and learn about how trees help the environment. 

The project not only brightens the school’s outdoor spaces but also encourages pupils to keep taking simple, positive actions that make a real difference. In line with CEC’s belief in caring for the campus and the wider environment, this year’s planting adds to the growing collection of trees already established.

It is the latest project as part of the schools work to encourage environmental awareness and sustainability on campus, after being awarded a prestigious Bronze Award by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) earlier this year.

Part of the Ted Wragg Trust, CEC continues to work toward its goal of having a tree for every student, helping to create a small woodland that reflects the school community and supports local wildlife and wellbeing for years to come.

Stephen Farmer, Head of Campus at Cranbrook Education Campus, said: “Seeing our pupils out on the field with spades in hand, working together and taking real pride in improving their surroundings, is exactly what our school is all about. Their enthusiasm for helping the environment shows the strength of our community and the care our young people have for the world around them.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “This project is a wonderful example of how our schools empower young people to make a positive difference. By planting these trees, Cranbrook pupils are not only improving their campus but also helping to build a stronger, greener future for their community. It’s inspiring to see young people leading the way.”

   

  

Students at Isca Academy have donated hundreds of books to children’s charities as part of a non-uniform day.

Students brought in books they no longer needed, from childhood favourites to popular teenage reads, creating a collection suitable for readers of all ages.

The donations will go to Children’s Hospice Southwest and Atkinson’s Secure Children’s Home, so children can enjoy books and stories over the festive period.

Staff at the school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, praised the students for their generosity, enthusiasm, and willingness to support others, reflecting the school’s mission to make a positive difference in their community and beyond.

Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy, said: “I am incredibly proud of our students for the kindness and compassion they have shown. By donating books they no longer need, they are giving the gift of reading this Christmas and making a real difference to others in our community.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, said:  "It’s brilliant to see our students sharing their generosity and making a meaningful impact in their community. Moments like this really reflect the values we hope to inspire in all our students and across our school communities."