Year 5 pupils at Exwick Heights Primary School in Exeter enjoyed an immersive journey through space after welcoming the Space Odyssey mobile planetarium to the school.

Inside the giant inflatable dome, pupils explored the planets in the solar system and learned fascinating facts about how they differ in size, temperature and distance from the Sun.

One of the highlights of the session saw pupils learning about the phases of the Moon and discovering how its changing appearance is caused by its position in relation to the Earth and Sun.

The interactive experience also introduced children to a range of exciting astronomy facts, helping to spark curiosity and encouraging pupils to ask questions about the world around them.

Space Odyssey’s presentations are led by experienced science educator and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society Simon Ould, using immersive projections and simulations to bring science learning to life.

Exwick Heights Primary School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, places a strong emphasis on developing children’s curiosity and understanding of the world through hands-on science learning. The school’s science curriculum encourages pupils to ask questions, investigate ideas and develop scientific enquiry skills from an early age.

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

“The space dome visit was a fantastic experience for our Year 5 pupils and brought their science learning to life in a really memorable way. The children were fascinated by the different planets and loved learning more about the Moon and the wider universe. Experiences like this help inspire curiosity and excitement about science.”

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

“Across our family of schools, we want children to experience learning in ways that spark curiosity and encourage them to ask questions about the world around them. It’s wonderful to see students enjoying an opportunity like this, helping to broaden horizons and show pupils how exciting and engaging science can be beyond the classroom.”

Students and staff at St James School in Exeter have recently held their ‘Culture Day’, an engaging event that celebrated the rich diversity within the school community.

Students showcased their heritage by wearing traditional clothing representing a wide range of cultures. Countries including Ukraine, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Portugal, China and India were represented, creating a meaningful opportunity for students to share and learn more about each other’s backgrounds.

Food played a central role in the celebrations, with the school’s catering team preparing a special menu inspired by global cuisine. Students were able to experience dishes from different cultures, adding another dimension to the day. 

Throughout the event, students also took part in an interactive cultural quiz, made up of nine engaging rounds. The quiz tested their knowledge of languages, food, art and geography from around the world, encouraging curiosity and teamwork.

The event reflected the commitment of the school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, to celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion. 

Emily Harper, Headteacher at St James School, said:

“Culture Day is one of the highlights of our school year. It gives our students a chance to take pride in their own heritage while learning more about the diverse backgrounds of others. Seeing the enthusiasm, respect and curiosity shown throughout the day was fantastic, and it really reflects the inclusive ethos we are so proud of at St James.” 

Moira Marder, Chief Executive Officer of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“Events like Culture Day are a brilliant example of what makes our schools so special. We are proud to see students embracing diversity, celebrating identity and learning from one another. This is exactly the kind of inclusive, values-driven education we are committed to across our family of schools.” 

Tor Bridge High is celebrating a remarkable basketball season after both its year 7 and year 8 teams went undefeated for a second consecutive year.

The year 7 team played eight games this season and claimed the PSSP (Plymouth Schools Sports Partnership) annual tournament. Meanwhile, the Year 8 squad also maintained their perfect record, winning all their central venue fixtures across four evenings at the Life Centre.

Across both teams, led by PE teacher Mr Dann, staff say the success has been driven by commitment to training, strong team spirit, and a shared ambition to improve.

Strong links with local clubs and the Plymouth Patriots Academy have also played a key role, giving students exposure to elite-level basketball and coaching support. Combined with role models from older year groups, this helps create a clear pathway for aspiring players to progress to higher levels of the sport.

Part of the Ted Wragg Trust, Tor Bridge High is building on its success in the sport with the launch of its Year 7 Basketball Academy in September, offering enhanced training, nutrition support, and development opportunities for future players.

Following in the footsteps of the school’s sixth form Patriots Academy students, the programme is led by Paul James, Director of Basketball at Plymouth Patriots, and links into the Patriots Pathway, giving talented year 7 players the chance to progress under elite coaching alongside the school’s top performers.

Anyone interested in being considered for the Patriots Pathway at Year 7 should contact Scott Williams on [email protected] for more information.

Mr Dann, PE teacher at Tor Bridge High, said:

“This has been another brilliant season for both our year 7 and Year 8 basketball teams. The students’ commitment to training, their teamwork, and their determination to improve week after week has been outstanding. Going unbeaten for a second consecutive year is a fantastic achievement, and I couldn’t be prouder of every player for the way they’ve represented Tor Bridge High on and off the court.”

 Tracy Stephenson, Headteacher at Tor Bridge High, said:

“Our basketball programme continues to grow from strength to strength, and our teams’ success shows what can be achieved when talent is combined with dedication and support. Launching the Year 7 Basketball Academy allows students to start developing their skills earlier, giving them the best possible foundation to progress through the Patriots Pathway and achieve their full potential.”

Students from Marine Academy Secondary took part in an immersive mock trial this month, stepping into the city magistrates’ court to experience the law in action.

West Exe School recently hosted a dynamic and enriching science festival, made possible through generous support and funding from the Royal Society of Chemistry. The one-day event brought science to life for students, highlighting its vital role in shaping a more sustainable future.

Throughout the festival, students took part in a wide range of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and inspiring careers talks. Sessions focused on key themes including green careers, climate change, and the role of scientific innovation and artificial intelligence in tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

The event also provided valuable opportunities for students to connect with representatives from colleges, universities, and industry, giving them insight into future pathways and helping them explore the many possibilities within science-related careers.

An exciting line-up of guest speakers shared their expertise and experiences with students, including Dr Karen Marshall and Cecilia Golborne, who all helped to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Dr Marshall is the Head of Science and Chemistry at The Ladies College in Guernsey and Secretary of Peninsula Section for the Royal Society of Chemistry. Cecilia Golborne is a former research project manager, current Royal Society of Chemistry scholar and Chemistry teacher at West Exe School.

Dr Bernd Eggen also exhibited at the festival, he is a climate change adaptation specialist who was part of the Nobel Prize Team for Chemistry for the discovery of Carbon-60 buckminsterfullerene which established the field of drug delivery systems including HIV treatments.

The festival was a resounding success, with students fully engaged and enthusiastic throughout the day, gaining a deeper understanding of how science can shape their futures and the world around them.

West Exe School, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, continues to place a strong emphasis on providing enriching experiences that broaden horizons, raise aspirations, and connect learning to real-world opportunities.

Julie Fossey, headteacher at West Exe School, said:

“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience science beyond the classroom and see how it connects to the world around them. The festival encouraged critical thinking and helped students understand the important role they can play in shaping a more sustainable future. We are incredibly grateful to the Royal Society of Chemistry and our guest speakers for making the day so memorable.”

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

“It is wonderful to see our students so engaged with the scientific innovation, challenges and opportunities shaping our world today while also gaining insight into future careers. This festival is a brilliant example of how schools can ignite curiosity, inspire the next generation to think ambitiously and empower young people to make a positive difference in the world. Thank you to everyone who helped make the festival such a success.”

Pupils from Marine Academy Primary enjoyed an action-packed trip to Paris this term, experiencing the sights, sounds and tastes of the French capital.

Highlights of the trip included a boat trip along the Seine, a visit to the Eiffel Tower, exploring the Sacré-Cœur and making traditional crêpes. Pupils also had the opportunity to try local foods, including some more adventurous choices such as snails!

The trip combined cultural learning with fun and practical experiences, giving pupils the chance to explore a new city, face new challenges and make memories together. For many of these young learners it was their first time abroad. 

As part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the visit is part of Marine Academy Primary’s ongoing commitment to providing pupils with opportunities that broaden horizons, spark curiosity and build confidence both inside and outside the classroom.

Georgina Reid, Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary, said:

“What a wonderful trip. It has been such a joy to share pupils’ adventures. These are experiences they will never forget, and it has been fantastic to see them growing in confidence and curiosity along the way. They were all fantastic ambassadors for the school.”

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

“Trips like this give pupils experiences that last a lifetime. Seeing them explore new places, try new things, and support one another shows just how much they can achieve when given the opportunity.”