Students at St Luke’s Church of England School have been learning vital life-saving skills this term.

During the hands-on workshops led by the charity Jay’s Aim, the year 8 students practised recognising a cardiac emergency, calling for help, performing CPR, and using a defibrillator safely and effectively. 

The interactive sessions were designed to build confidence and ensure students are ready to act if someone’s life is at risk.

Jay’s Aim was founded in memory of James (Jay) Osborne, who passed away at 28, with the mission of reducing sudden cardiac deaths among young people in South West England. The British Heart Foundation estimates that 12 people under 35 die each week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions, often without warning. 

By teaching practical skills, Jay’s Aim helps young people and adults feel more confident about responding in life-threatening situations.

At St Luke’s, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, opportunities like this support the school’s wider focus on responsibility, teamwork, and community awareness, giving pupils valuable skills for real-life situations.

And across the Trust’s family of schools this academic year, Year 8 students will be benefitting from this training following a wonderful session with staff as part of tEdFest 2025, the trust’s flagship ‘Festival of Learning’.

Mr Harrison Littler, Headteacher at St Luke’s C of E School, said: “We want our students to feel ready for real-life situations. The sessions were engaging and practical, and it was fantastic to see the students leave with the confidence to help in an emergency. We’re really grateful to Jay’s Aim for working with us to provide this opportunity for our students.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: “Jay’s Aim provides invaluable training that equips young people and staff with the knowledge to save lives. This latest training session at St Luke’s is a wonderful example of how practical learning and personal development go hand in hand. A huge thank you to Jay’s Aim for their continued dedication and support.”

Pupils from Marine Academy Primary are getting their hands dirty and their imaginations fired up as they begin growing their very own micro-forest this term.

The children will take responsibility for creating and caring for the mini woodland beside the school playground, learning firsthand about stewardship, sustainability and the importance of looking after the planet.

The ‘My Wacky Forest’ project, run by the non-profit environmental organisation SocieTree, blends storytelling with real-world action. From digging holes and planting saplings to reading about the adventures of the ‘My Wacky Forests’ characters, the initiative uses joy, teamwork and creativity to celebrate how communities can help shape a greener future.

Excitement took root when pupils welcomed SocieTree and their mascot Mushi the giant mushroom to kick off the project this term.

The scheme forms part of a wider effort to create multiple My Wacky Forests across Plymouth. It is backed by a £50,000 grant from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affair’s King’s Coronation Living Heritage Fund to the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest.

Marine Academy Primary, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, remains committed to helping young learners grow into curious, independent and responsible citizens who are ready to play their part in protecting the natural world.

Georgina Reid Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary, said:

“Our children are absolutely buzzing about creating their own forest. It is a wonderful way for them to learn that even small actions, such as planting and nurturing a sapling, can have a big impact. We can already see how proud they are to be helping nature thrive right on their doorstep.”

Siobhan Meredith, Executive Director of Education at the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust, said:

“Projects like this give children a powerful sense of ownership over their environment and their future. When children see that their actions can help nature flourish, they begin to understand their own power to shape the world around them for a better future, and that is something we want every child to carry with them.”

  

Students from Queen Elizabeth’s School (QE) spent their half term break discovering the history, culture and dramatic landscapes of the Bay of Naples during a five day educational visit.

The 30 strong group enjoyed a packed itinerary that included climbing Mount Vesuvius, travelling the winding Amalfi Coast, and exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. From volcanic geology to Roman civilisation, students were able to see key topics from their studies brought vividly to life.

The visit also included time in Naples, where students experienced the city’s lively atmosphere and sampled its famous fried pizza. A trip to the Tenuta Vannulo Buffalo Mozzarella Farm offered a flavour of local tradition, with students learning how authentic mozzarella is produced using organic methods before tasting it fresh.

At QE, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, they believe that enriching trips such as this can change lives. The school aims to provide all students with opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have and take them to places they wouldn't otherwise go. 

In March, QE students also took part in a Euroscola session in Strasbourg as part of the European Parliament’s Ambassador Schools network, where they had the chance to immerse themselves in the heart of European politics. 

Ms Paula Smith, Headteacher at Queen Elizabeth’s School said:

 “This was a fantastic opportunity for students to learn beyond the classroom and experience one of the world’s most fascinating regions. Trips like this help broaden horizons and create memories they’ll carry with them for years.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

 “At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to providing young people with opportunities that offer a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about different cultures, explore historic sites and of course sample some of the world’s best pizza.”

  

  

  

Pupils at Exwick Heights Primary School are on a mission to thank Exeter’s community heroes.

The school's community ambassadors came together to reflect on the people and organisations who help make the city the special place it is. After drawing up a list of deserving recipients, the children made thank you cards to send to each of them.

From Exwick Community Larder, Exeter Foodbank and The Exwick Free Toy Shed to Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Little Valley Animal Shelter, and Exwick Community Association, they each received a handcrafted thank you. Police, fire crews, library staff and the city council were also on the list, as well as the local RSPCA, Exeter Post Office, Exwick Sports Hub, Exwick Health Centre, and the school’s Parent Teacher Friends Association.

Exwick Heights Primary School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has a strong focus on creating a culture of kindness, where pupils learn the importance of empathy and compassion, building strong relationships with their peers and the wider community. One goal of their curriculum is to help children become responsible citizens with strong moral standards and able to contribute to society.

Mrs Gemma Wills, Headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School said: “At Exwick Heights, we believe learning goes beyond the classroom. Empathy, compassion and gratitude are just as important as any subject we teach. Our community ambassadors made us incredibly proud. Exeter is full of wonderful people, and it was lovely to see the children taking time to think about those who keep us safe, care for others and brighten our community. “

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: “As a trust, our mission is to help strengthen the communities we serve by supporting children to develop the skills, character and confidence to contribute positively. This project is a great example of pupils demonstrating the values that sit at the heart of our work.”

  

Isca Academy was delighted to welcome Councillor Andrew Leadbetter for a visit this term. During his time at the school, Councillor Leadbetter toured the school’s facilities and gained insight into the vibrant learning environment enjoyed by students.

As part of his visit, Councillor Leadbetter met with members of the student leadership team. The students engaged him in a thoughtful discussion about his career in politics, his current priorities within the local community, and ways in which young people can ensure their voices are heard in local decision-making. The students asked insightful questions, demonstrating a strong interest in public service and civic engagement.

Councillor Leadbetter expressed his admiration for the students’ confidence and curiosity, sharing practical advice on how they can make a difference in their communities. He also praised the school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, for its positive atmosphere and the dedication of both staff and pupils.

Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said: "It was a real privilege to welcome Councillor Leadbetter to Isca Academy. Our students were inspired by his visit, and it provided a fantastic opportunity for them to explore how they can make a difference in their community. Visits like this are a great reminder of the importance of encouraging civic awareness and leadership in our young people."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: "We are thrilled that our students had the chance to meet Councillor Leadbetter and engage in such meaningful discussion. Encouraging young people to take an active interest in local decision making is central to our mission, and this visit perfectly illustrates the opportunities our schools provide to nurture confident, socially aware citizens."

West Exe School is delighted to share that it has been recognised for its outstanding achievement in introducing Classics. The Exeter school was awarded a ‘Secondary School of the Year - Highly Commended’ certificate by Classics for All in their 2025 Impact Awards.

At West Exe, the Classical Civilisation GCSE is a course that continues to grow with currently 84 students enrolled across Years 9 to 11. Since its induction, Classics has only grown in popularity amongst both staff and students. This year, students participated in a visit to the University of Exeter, where they attended lectures from leading experts in the field and explored new areas of study, including a fascinating analysis of the graffiti left behind in the ruins of Pompeii’s.

The school has further supported this growing enthusiasm for Classics across the school by introducing the Latin and Roman Empire elective, giving more students the opportunity to engage with Classical studies. Increasing evidence shows that learning classical subjects can raise students’ aspirations and achievement, while strengthening their language skills, through a structured approach to grammar and a strong foundation for literacy and modern foreign languages.

A Year 10 Classics student said: "I love learning about Classics as I have always been passionate about Greek mythology and Roman history, and Classics includes all of that and more. It is very interesting learning about the tales of ancient historical figures and myths of heroes and gods and overall is a really fun subject!"

Classics for All supports state schools across the UK to introduce or develop the teaching of classical subjects sustainably on the curriculum or as an after-school activity. Their fifth annual teaching awards, the 'Impact Awards', this year took place at a special ceremony in Leeds Royal Armouries. Teachers, network coordinators and special guests came together to recognise the transformative work of some of the best and brightest teachers from across the country.

At West Exe School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, staff have the highest of expectations of students and expect them to achieve truly great things, and they do. This summer, three quarters of students successfully passed both GCSE English and Maths, a notable increase when compared to last year, placing the school considerably above the national average yet again. 

A Year 11 Classics student said: "I used to have a great interest in the ancient Romans and Greeks, and Classics has re-ignited my passion for it, helping me to learn more about them. It has also helped me to appreciate their wider society, which I had not appreciated before, and I now have an interest in ancient Roman literature."

Julie Fossey, Headteacher at West Exe School said: "We are thrilled that our commitment to introducing Classics at West Exe has been recognised on a national stage. Studying classical subjects not only connects students to ancient cultures, but also strengthens their literacy, problem-solving, and analytical skills, which underpin success across the curriculum. I am incredibly proud of the staff who have championed this programme and of our students, whose enthusiasm for learning continues to impress and inspire us every day."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: "At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are passionate about creating opportunities that expand horizons and raise aspirations for all young people. West Exe’s recognition by Classics for All is a wonderful example of how schools can innovate to enrich learning and inspire ambition. This award is a testament to the dedication of staff and students, and we are delighted to see their hard work celebrated nationally."