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  • Lipson Co-Operative Academy Students enjoy the sites of London on a school trip

    Lipson Co-Operative Academy Students Enjoy Unforgettable London Trip

    Published 05/02/25

    Years 8 and 9 English students from Lipson Co-operative Academy, recently embarked on an exciting adventure to London, combining classic sightseeing with a spectacular theatre experience. 

    Despite the early start at 6am, the students’ enthusiasm was as high as ever as they set off for a day filled with exploration and culture.  Upon arriving in London the group kicked off their sightseeing tour, visiting iconic landmarks such as Horse Guards Parade, the Houses of Parliament, and Downing Street. 

    After a well-deserved lunch break, it was time for the highlight of the trip – a performance of Oliver! at the Gielgud Theatre, based on Charles Dickens’ beloved novel.

    The students were captivated by the show, giving it a standing ovation at the end of the performance. The group was commended by members of the public for their impeccable behaviour and manners, a testament to their maturity and respect for the experience.

    After the curtain call, the students boarded the coach for the long journey back to school, arriving home at 11.30pm, but all agreed that the day was worth every minute.  From the sights of London to the final applause, the trip was a complete success.

    At Lipson Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, they believe that enrichment activities are extremely important and help to enhance the learning opportunities of students.  They strive to offer as many opportunities as possible for students and to develop the “whole” child with wider skills such as leadership and team work, as well as improving confidence and self/esteem.

     Mr Martin Brook, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy said:

    “We’re incredibly proud of how our students represented Lipson during their trip to London.  It was fantastic to see them engage with both the historical landmarks and the incredible production of Oliver! It’s a trip they will never forget, and we are grateful for the opportunity to make it happen.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “It’s always a joy to see students embracing the learning opportunities that trips like these provide.  This experience will have brought the literature they study in the classroom to life and allowed students to learn in a fun and engaging way.”

    Lipson Co-Operative Academy Students Enjoy the sites of London on a school Trip

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  • Marine Academy Plymouth students holding bags of mussels

    Marine Academy Plymouth Students Dive into Delicious Mussels Thanks to #FishHeroes!

    Published 04/02/25

    Students from Marine Academy Plymouth’s Year 10 and Year 11 catering classes are making waves in the kitchen, thanks to a generous delivery of rope-grown mussels from the Fish in Schools Hero programme.

    The 8kg donation, part of a nationwide initiative, was made possible by Offshore Shell, packed by RTShellfish, and delivered by Dfds Group.  As one of 200 schools across the UK to receive this exciting donation, Marine Academy Plymouth students have been putting their culinary skills to the test by preparing and cooking Thai-style mussels. 

    The experience is part of the #FishHeroes programme, which aims to give students the chance to prepare, cook, and enjoy fish before they leave school, helping them develop a lifelong appreciation for seafood.  The initiative, which is backed by the Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust and managed by the Food Teachers Centre, ensures that food teachers across the UK have the confidence and training to introduce fish-based dishes into the curriculum. 

    Hospitality and catering students at Marine Academy Plymouth, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, learn about a variety of topics including food safety, health and safety and how the sectors operate.

     Jennifer Brimming, Principal of Marine Academy Plymouth said:

    “We’re incredibly grateful for the support from the Fish in Schools Hero programme.  Our students have gained invaluable hands-on experience in the kitchen, learning to prepare nutritious, sustainable meals.  I am sure that the programme will continue to inspire the next generation of chefs, food enthusiasts, and sustainability advocates, one fish dish at a time!”

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

    “As a school in Plymouth, an ocean city with a rich maritime history, it’s brilliant to see Marine Academy Plymouth taking part in the Fish in Schools Hero programme.  It’s great that students are connecting with the sustainable food sources that are so integral to our coastal community.”

    Two Marine Academy Plymouth Students holding a bowl of Mussels   A Delicious bowl of Mussels   Marine Academy Plymouth Students Dive into Delicious Mussels

    Two Marine Academy Plymouth Students holding a box of Mussels

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  • QE Students Take Part in Prestigious Chemistry Olympiad

    Published 03/02/25

    Sixth Form students from Queen Elizabeth’s School (QE) have participated in the first round of the Royal Society of Chemistry's UK Chemistry Olympiad, showcasing their knowledge and passion for chemistry in a challenging and inspiring environment.

    The UK Chemistry Olympiad is a prestigious competition designed to push the boundaries of budding chemists, giving them the opportunity to apply their skills in creative, real-world scenarios.  Known for its difficulty, the Olympiad encourages students to develop critical problem-solving abilities while testing their knowledge in a series of rigorous chemistry challenges.

    The competition is open to students from across the UK, with questions aimed at those in their last year of study before higher education.  For some students, the Olympiad provides a stepping stone to even greater opportunities, including the chance to represent the UK at the International Chemistry Olympiad.

     At QE Sixth Form, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the Chemistry A Level covers all aspects of the subject, focusing on the three main areas of physical, organic and inorganic chemistry.  The course is designed to stimulate and sustain interest in Chemistry by presenting it in a variety of situations, many of them involving practical work.

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

    “We are extremely proud of our students for taking part in this year’s competition.  The UK Chemistry Olympiad is not only a test of knowledge but an excellent opportunity for our students to grow their passion for chemistry.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “We are thrilled to see Queen Elizabeth’s Sixth Form students excelling in this prestigious event.  The Olympiad is a wonderful way for young scientists to push their limits and expand their thinking.  This year’s participation speaks to the dedication of both the students and the school in encouraging the next generation of chemists.”

    Sixth Form student from QE wearing green jumper sat a desk taking part in Chemistry Olympiad   Sixth Form students from QE sat desks taking part in Chemistry Olympiad

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  • St Luke's Students who won the Student Community Leadership Award at the Ted Wragg Awards 2024 standing in front of a gold backdrop

    Empowering our students to champion Mental Health with creative initiatives and student-led support

    Published 31/01/25
    Next week, schools across the Ted Wragg Trust, spanning Devon, will be marking Children’s Mental Health Week.  Organised by the children’s mental health charity Place2Be, the annual event raises awareness of the importance of mental
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  • A Feather in Their Cap: Exwick Heights Pupils Help Build National Birdwatch Picture

    Published 30/01/25

    Pupils at Exwick Heights Primary School recently embarked on a birdwatching adventure as part of the RSPB Schools’ Bird Watch survey.

    Mozart Class ventured into the Discovery Garden to quietly observe and document the variety of bird species around the school grounds.  Their patience and enthusiasm paid off as they were rewarded with many feathered friends who visited for a close-up view.

    The RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch, an annual event that invites schools across the country to count local bird populations and it is a fantastic way for children to connect with nature. Mozart Class was excited to participate and learn about the diverse species that share their environment.  With resources provided by the RSPB, the students were able to use identification sheets to accurately log the birds they spotted.

    The RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch runs from January 7 to February 14, 2025, and is open to all schools. It’s an easy and interactive way to engage students in nature while supporting curriculum learning.  Pupils are encouraged to complete the survey by counting the highest number of each species they spot at one time and submitting their results online for a national comparison.

    Exwick Heights, boasts plenty of green spaces, providing ample room for outdoor activities and exploration.  The school features two distinct buildings: one is a stunning structure with a balcony offering fantastic views of the surrounding area, creating an inspiring environment for our pupils. 

     Mrs Gemma Wills, Headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School said:

    “We were thrilled to take part in the RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch.  It’s a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to get outdoors, learn about nature, and work together as a class.  It was such a joy to see how engaged they were, and they were so patient waiting for the birds to appear was a lesson in itself!”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “We were delighted to hear that Exwick Heights was taking part in the RSPB’s Big Schools’ Birdwatch.  It’s a great way to get young people involved in wildlife conservation and encourage them to appreciate the diverse wildlife right outside their classroom.  The work that Mozart Class has done will help build a valuable picture of bird populations across the country, and everyone at the Ted Wragg Trust is excited to continue supporting schools in their journey to connect with nature.”

    Lots of Exwick Heights Pupils outside holding a bird watch survey and looking for birds.   Exwick Height Pupil stood between two tress in red coat holding a bird watch survey.   Two Exwick Heights Pupils holding a bird watch survey.   Exwick Heights Pupil holding a bird watch survey.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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  • Whipton Barton Pupils Experience 'Living Saxon History' pupil outside with hand up

    Whipton Barton Pupils Experience 'Living Saxon History'

    Published 29/01/25

    Year 4 pupils from  Whipton Barton Federation embarked on an unforgettable trip to Wildwood Devon at Escot Park this month, immersing themselves in 'living Saxon history.'  

    The children were transported back in time, exploring life as a Saxon villager and experiencing the everyday tasks that would have defined their ancestors’ lives.

    Spread across 40 acres of gardens and woodland in the heart of the county, Wildwood is a charity dedicated to restoring nature through innovative rewilding projects. 

    During their visit, pupils got hands-on with history as they baked bread, forged bronze, and carved runes.  They also had the opportunity to explore traditional Saxon huts and shelters, offering a unique glimpse into the past.  

    The adventure didn’t stop there,  the pupils also foraged through woodlands and visited an array of wildlife, including wolves, boar, arctic foxes, and lynxes, enriching their learning experience even further.

    At Whipton Barton Federation, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, they believe that high-quality history lessons ignite curiosity and enable children to think and act as historians. 

    Pupils study important periods in British and world history, from Roman Britain to the World Wars. Covering themes such as change, continuity, power, and perspective, pupils access a broad curriculum and develop an understanding of the past’s influence on today’s world and encourages a deeper appreciation of history. 

    Louise Moretta. Executive Headteacher at Whipton Barton Federation said:

    “Our Year 4 pupils truly embraced this incredible opportunity to experience history in such an interactive way and I am so proud of the way they represented the school.  This visit gave them the chance to step into the shoes of Saxon villagers, providing them with a hands-on history lesson that was the perfect blend of education, adventure, and fun.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “It’s one thing to read about history, but to experience it in such an engaging and meaningful way is truly invaluable.  This trip to Escot Park will have made a long-lasting impression on the pupils and I am thrilled that they will carry the memories of what they learnt there with them for years to come.”

    Whipton Barton pupils exploring saxon times  Whipton Barton student dressing up as a saxon  Whipton Barton Pupil at Wildwood Devon at Escot Park   Whipton Barton Pupils experiencing saxon living   Whipton Barton Pupils exploring saxon style wood turning

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  • Post box and telephone box with images in as part of the Sidmouth College art CODEX project

    CODEX Project Connects Sidmouth Students with Creativity and Community ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

    Published 29/01/25

    Students from Sidmouth College, are showcasing their creativity and expressing their voices in a unique new art initiative, the CODEX Project.  

    In collaboration with Sidmouth School of Art, this exciting venture has allowed students to explore a range of traditional and digital art techniques, creating stunning works that focus on identity and wellbeing.  Their art is now on display in Sidmouth’s Wallspace, the iconic Telephone Box Micro Museums, and has even caught the attention of Arts Council England, who has featured it on their Instagram page.

    The CODEX Project takes inspiration from Bob & Roberta Smith’s ‘The Thamesmead Codex’ and encourages students to creatively reflect on their personal journeys and emotional wellbeing.  Through digital print, typography, photography, and experimental printing with gelli plates, the students have been able to creatively explore these themes and make a powerful statement about their experiences in today’s society.

    The CODEX Project aims to continue engaging with young people across Devon, with Sidmouth School of Art hoping to extend the project to teachers and students throughout the region. The initiative is part of the Sidmouth Makes Art (SMArt) Project, which strives to foster creativity in the local community.

    Sidmouth College, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has designed their art curriculum to engage and inspire students to believe in their potential, and to enable them to explore a range of materials whilst refining and developing creative skills. Staff ask students to form opinions whilst exploring the work of others and offer them the opportunity for self-reflection whilst broadening their cultural experiences.

    Mrs Lisa Whitworth, Headteacher at Sidmouth College said:

    “This has been an incredible opportunity for our students, they have embraced taking part in the CODEX Project with enthusiasm, using their creativity to explore important issues. We are so proud of their work, and thrilled to see their pieces displayed in such prominent locations.”

    Moria Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “The CODEX Project is a powerful example of how art can serve as a platform for young people to express their voices and connect with others.  Everyone at the trust is so proud that our young people are collaborating with the Sidmouth School of Art on this project.  I look forward to seeing how this project will inspire other young people across Devon and beyond.”

    Post Box and Telephone Box with images in   Cars in front of a wall with a picture on

     

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  • Picture of a Queen Elizabeth's winning student stood in front of a Christmas tree holding a certificate.

    Kick Start to Creativity: Queen Elizabeth’s Students Spark Imagination with Winning Art Designs

    Published 28/01/25

    The winning entries of the  Crediton Heart Project Kick Start Art Logo and Mascot Design Competition have been announced and two students from Queen Elizabeth’s School (QE) have had their designs chosen.  

    With over 150 entries to choose from, the judges had their work cut out for them, but ultimately, the creative ingenuity of the QE students Layla and Bella stood out.

    The competition invited students to design a logo and mascot that would help to launch an exciting community art project aimed at inspiring local children. After much deliberation Layla’s striking and clever logo design, and Bella’s imaginative and fun mascot were chosen. These standout pieces will serve as the visual identity for the initiative in the coming weeks.

    The Crediton Heart Project is a local initiative focused on community engagement through arts and cultural projects designed to inspire and unite the people of Crediton and the surrounding areas.

    The competition not only celebrated the artistic talent of the students but also reinforced the school's commitment to nurturing creativity within the local community. At QE, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the art curriculum is designed to ensure students gain a holistic creative education, learning about everything from expressive use of colours to how to create collagraphs. They explore a range of artistic techniques including sculpting with clay and printmaking. 

    QE has also received a Gold Artsmark award, which is the only creative quality standard for schools, accredited by Arts Council England. It supports schools to develop and celebrate arts and cultural education across the whole curriculum, bringing learning to life for children and young people.

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

    “We are beyond thrilled with the talent displayed by our students.  The effort, passion, and creativity put into each entry was outstanding.  Layla and Bella’s designs are truly special, and I can’t wait for our school and community to see these incredible pieces come to life through the Kick Start Art project.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “Everyone at the Ted Wragg Trust is thrilled to see the incredible level of creativity from the students at Queen Elizabeth’s School.  Taking part in this competition has been a fantastic way to engage the next generation of artists while strengthening the bonds within the local community.  I am excited to see how their work will help shape this project and create lasting connections throughout Crediton.”

    Picture of a Queen Elizabeth's winning student stood in front of a Christmas tree holding a certificate.  Picture of a Queen Elizabeth's winning student stood in front of a Christmas tree holding a certificate.

    KSA mascot    KSA logo

    Runner Up art work of animated paintbrush  Runner Up art work of KSA artwork  Runner Up art work of a Kangaroo

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  • Children from Marine Academy holding their Walkwise certificates

    Road Safety Champions: Marine Academy Primary Pupils Walk Their Way to Success

    Published 23/01/25

    Pupils from Marine Academy Primary have successfully completed their Walkwise course this month.

    Class 2NH have been working closely with the expert road safety team from Plymouth City Council this academic year, honing their observation and awareness skills while crossing roads with an adult.

    Every Friday, the class has been exploring their local area and gaining valuable, hands-on experience that will help them stay safe as they grow into independent travellers. The Walkwise programme is specifically designed to teach young children crucial road safety skills, enabling them to navigate the streets more confidently.

    The children have thoroughly enjoyed the sessions, showing great enthusiasm and making significant progress throughout the course.  

    Marine Academy Primary, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, encourages children to learn through exploration and staff aim to ensure that pupils are independently minded and confident citizens of the future.

    Georgina Reid Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary said:

    "We are all incredibly proud of Class 2NH for completing the Walkwise course.  It's been fantastic to watch them grow in confidence and develop such important life skills.  Road safety is key as they begin to explore the world around them, and I am confident that the lessons they have learned will stay with them.”

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

    "It’s fantastic to see Marine Academy Primary working so closely with Plymouth City Council on the Walkwise course.  I am so proud of the progress Class 2NH has made, which is a testament to the collaborative efforts between our school staff and the city’s road safety team.  Together, we are building a safer and more confident future for our pupils as they begin to navigate the world beyond the classroom."  

             

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  • Plymouth Students Make Waves at the Marine Station

    Published 22/01/25

    Students and staff at Lipson Co-operative Academy, are celebrating the exceptional efforts of Year 8 students who earned a remarkable opportunity to visit the University of Plymouth Marine Station. 

    The students were rewarded for their outstanding commitment to their Sparx Science work, which helps to build scientific knowledge and understanding through personalised homework, with an action-packed day of scientific exploration and hands-on learning.

    The trip included a series of exciting activities designed to deepen students' understanding of marine science and environmental conservation. 

    Highlights of the day included:

    • Examining plankton under the microscope and practicing scientific drawing
    • Collaborating to clean up an 'oil spill' simulation in Antarctica
    • Investigating the causes behind fish deaths in the Tamar Estuary

    This immersive experience provided students with an invaluable insight into the world of marine science, fostering a sense of curiosity and environmental responsibility.

    Dedicated to teaching and research, the Marine Station serves all the university’s marine-based courses including civil engineering, earth sciences and marine biology.

    Situated on the shores of Plymouth Sound as part of their ‘Waterfront Campus’, the facility offers labs and classrooms extending out into the natural environment. It is the base for their research vessels and a centre of excellence for diving.

    The science curriculum at Lipson Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, aims to ignite curiosity, interest and enjoyment in students whilst furnishing them with the necessary skills to successfully explore the world around them. Lessons are designed to enable all learners to gain skills in biology, chemistry and physics in a theoretical and practical sense.

     Mr Martin Brook, Headteacher at Lipson Co-operative Academy said:

    "We are incredibly proud of our Year 8 students for their dedication and commitment to their studies. Their enthusiasm for learning and passion for science shone through during this hands-on experience, and we are thrilled to see them develop both academically and personally. This trip not only deepened their understanding of marine science but also inspired them to think critically about the world around them."

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    "At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to providing our students with exceptional learning opportunities that go beyond the classroom. This visit to the University of Plymouth Marine Station is an excellent example of how our schools bring learning to life, enabling students to engage directly with real-world scientific challenges and cultivate a passion for environmental stewardship."

        

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  • Local Businesswomen Inspire Future Leaders ​​​​​​​

    Published 22/01/25

    Students from Isca Academy in Exeter have started taking part in Empowering Girls mentoring sessions this term.

    A selection of Year 9 girls are working  with inspirational local businesswomen who have volunteered their time for six weeks to support the school’s developing Careers Programme.  The aim is to have the programme running throughout the year so that as many girls as possible are able to take part. 

    Some of the current mentors include women who work in the NHS and at the Met Office and they are providing the girls with one to one support as they consider their next steps and careers.  The mentors hope to build up the girls' communication skills and confidence to help them while they are still at school and in the future.  The mentoring arrangement can also lead to work experience placements come Year 10.

    The Empowering Girls programme has been designed to support girls with their confidence, raise aspirations and provide students with positive female role models.  Student feedback about the programme has been positive with participants saying that the sessions have given them the opportunity to talk about what they are good at, helped them to think about their future education and career path and encouraged them to consider jobs they hadn’t thought of before.

    The school has a careers programme which weaves through their curriculum, giving students learning purpose and context.  Their careers programme aims to build aspirations for all students, support inclusion through challenging stereotyping and promoting equality of opportunity and develop enterprise, and entrepreneurial skills.

    Other schools in the Ted Wragg Trust are also taking part in the programme, including West Exe School, St James School, St Lukes Church of England School, Honiton Community College, Sidmouth College and All Saints Academy Plymouth.

    Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

    "I am delighted to see our Year 9 students engaging with the Empowering Girls mentoring programme.  It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to be guided by inspirational women from a variety of fields.  We are committed to ensuring that as many girls as possible benefit from this programme, empowering them to aspire to great things and pursue their ambitions with determination."

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:"I’m thrilled that so many of our students are participating in the Empowering Girls programme. A huge thank you to all the mentors that are volunteering their time, they are not only equipping girls with the skills to succeed in the workplace and in life, but also offering them a valuable glimpse into a wide range of career opportunities."

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  • Station of Smiles: Exwick Heights Pupils Bring Colour to Exeter St David's

    Published 21/01/25

    January blues? Not at Exeter St David's Train Station! Talented pupils from Exwick Heights Primary School have created a burst of colourful artwork to bring some much-needed joy to commuters this winter.  Their vibrant masterpieces are now on display at the station, transforming everyday travel into a little moment of sunshine.

    The creative display features art from pupils as young as four years old, with each piece designed to make people smile as they head to work or catch a train. Just in time for Blue Monday (January 20th), the day known as the most depressing of the year as poor weather and fading Christmas memories culminate in a glum atmosphere, these lively designs are sure to lift spirits and add a dash of cheer to the commute.

    The school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, enriches children’s artistic development through a range of practical experiences in the classroom based on a skills-based curriculum. This is designed to foster and raise aspirations, opening the children up to the potential of their artistic talent.  

    There are many opportunities throughout the year for children to showcase their artistic talents, build their creative confidence and deepen their interest in the arts. In weekly assemblies they develop our knowledge of artists and they have an annual art week.

    Mrs Gemma Wills, Headteacher at Exwick Heights Primary School said:

    “I am delighted that so many of our pupils provided artwork for this project.  I would encourage anyone who is making a journey through Exeter St Davids to take a moment to stop by, enjoy their artwork, and let these bright designs remind you that even in the midst of winter, there's always room for a little sunshine.”

    Debbie Ferris, Station Manager Exeter St Davids said:

    “Thank you so much for this fabulous artwork, the Exwick Heights school children have done us proud!  We have placed a board of pictures in the concourse and also one in the waiting room on platform 1. They have really brightened up the station.”

        

      

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