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  • Students from ASAP stood with Plymouth Tamar Bridge in background

    All Saints Students Celebrate International Women in Engineering Day at the Tamar Bridge

    Published 09/07/25

    To mark International Women in Engineering Day, eleven students from All Saints Academy Plymouth (ASAP) took part in the Engineering Her Future event at the iconic Tamar Bridge. International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), organised by Women’s Engineering Society (WES), promotes the amazing work that women engineers across the globe are doing. 

    Engineering Her Future is a free annual event hosted at the Tamar Bridge, promoting amazing opportunities in STEM (science, technology, maths and engineering) fields for young women, as currently only 16.5% of engineers are female. In particular, the event focuses on opportunities for women and girls within engineering and related sectors working locally. The event is organised by YMCA Plymouth in partnership with local schools and hosted across the incredible Tamar Bridge visitor centre.

    The day offered a unique opportunity for students to explore the world of engineering first-hand. Highlights included an engaging talk from a female engineer at Babcock, who shared her journey into the industry and the exciting challenges of her role. Students also connected with a range of local employers, learning more about the diverse career pathways within engineering.

    The girls also donned hard hats and safety gear to step beneath the bridge onto a platform below the road surface, getting a rare, close-up view of the engineering marvel that links Plymouth and Cornwall.

    The students from ASAP, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, impressed everyone with their curiosity, confidence, and insightful questions. They represented their school with pride, showing just how bright the future of engineering can be.

     Lacey Tombs, Acting Headteacher at All Saints Academy Plymouth said:

    "Our students were absolutely inspired by this experience - seeing real-life engineering in action and meeting female role models in the field was truly eye-opening. Opportunities like this help spark ambition and show our young people that there’s no limit to what they can achieve in STEM careers."

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: 

    "At the Ted Wragg Trust, we are committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring every young person sees themselves reflected in exciting careers like engineering. It’s brilliant to see All Saints students engaging so confidently in a sector where their voices and talents are so needed."

    Students from ASAP stood with Plymouth Tamar Bridge in background

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  • Big Screen, Big Dreams: Stars of the Screen Shine Bright at First-Ever Ted Wragg Short Film Awards

    Published 09/07/25

    The red carpet was well and truly rolled out at the Devonport Market Hall on Thursday 26th June, as students from across the Ted Wragg Trust took centre stage for their first ever ‘School Oscars’, the Ted Wragg Moving Image Competition Awards. 

    Held in the state-of-the-art ‘Real Immersive’ space, the evening celebrated the outstanding creativity, technical skill and storytelling power of young filmmakers from schools across the Ted Wragg Trust including Sidmouth College, Cranbrook Education Campus and Lipson Co-Operative Academy.

    With 26 short films entered, the event saw a range of genres and themes, from gripping horror thrillers and slick adverts to powerful informational films exploring mental health and caring. 

    Categories included Best Animation, Best Script, Best Cinematography, Best Short Film (Junior and Senior) and Most Original Concept, with industry professionals Gerard Williams, a BAFTA-nominated producer; Sam Hatton Brown, creative director at her own media business; and Jay Stone, a filmmaker, judging the entries.

    Each category featured a showreel of nominees, culminating in the winning film being screened in full to a packed audience of proud families, staff and supporters.

    The full list of winners is below:

    • BEST ANIMATION - Una Cox - ‘Tongues and Teeth’ (Sidmouth College)
    • BEST ADVERT - Scarlett-Leigh Winter - ‘SWS Dance Studio’ (Lipson Academy)
    • BEST MUSIC VIDEO - Ed Roles - ‘Funny Thing’ (Sidmouth College)
    • BEST INFORMATIONAL VIDEO - Matty Hancock - ‘The Unspoken Stories’ (Lipson Academy)
    • BEST PERFORMANCE -  Ellie May Sargeant - ‘ Intruder’ (Lipson Academy)
    • MOST ORIGINAL CONCEPT - Max Tong - ‘The Last Shift’ (Cranbrook School)
    • BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN - Madison Badock - ‘The Echo’ (Lipson Academy)
    • BEST POST PRODUCTION - Dylan Woods - ‘Lurking’ (Lipson Academy)
    • BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY - Milena Leisinschi - ‘The Guessing Game’ (Lipson Academy
    • BEST SCRIPT - Consuela Catilou - ‘Who is it?’ (Lipson Academy)
    • BEST SHORT FILM JUNIOR - Bethany, Riley & Jonathan - ‘Alexa’s Dimension’ (Cranbrook Primary)
    • BEST SHORT FILM SENIOR - Violet Jackson - ‘Martyr’ (Lipson Academy)

    The Moving Image Competition was created to give young people a professional platform to explore the power of film, celebrating collaboration, self-expression and creative risk-taking. Inspired by the legacy of Young Motion Plymouth (2008–2013), the Ted Wragg Trust hopes this new annual event will become a cornerstone of its creative arts offer, and organisers are already looking ahead to next year’s event, with plans to grow and secure sponsorship.

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

    “This has been such a joyful celebration of our students – their creativity, their voices, and their brilliant ideas. The films they’ve produced are full of passion and imagination and it’s been a real privilege to see their hard work brought to life on the big screen. Events like this are what the Ted Wragg Trust is all about: giving young people opportunities to shine, to be heard and to take centre stage. We’re so proud of what they’ve achieved and we can’t wait to build on this next year.”

    Rhys Phillips, Head of Media Studies & Event Organiser, Lipson Academy, Plymouth said:

    “The standard of all the entries has been staggering with such high-quality creativity in every production from Primary through to Secondary. The depth of planning and imagination that filmmakers and producers put into the final films and videos takes real dedication. All the filmmakers can take a bow because they have truly impressed the audience and judges. It was a very proud moment seeing our students receiving their awards and celebrating all of their achievements in such an iconic venue and I'm already looking forward to next year.”

    Image of screen with a welcome to the awards evening Three students stood in front of screen holding certificates Rose of popcorn boxes

    Three students stood holding certificates Image on a screen welcoming attendees to awards Four students stood in front of screen holding certificates

     

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  • Young Innovators Impress Judges at Ted Wragg Innovation Competition

    Published 09/07/25

    Ninety students from across the Ted Wragg Trust family of schools gathered at the Exeter Future Skills Centre last week for their annual Innovation Competition, designed to unleash creativity and bold thinking for a better, more sustainable world.

    Run in partnership with Exeter College and the Green Skills Advisory Panel, the event challenged young people to tackle some of society’s most pressing problems and to develop their own powerful solutions.

    Students worked for several months in teams to either design the “Town of the Future” or create a compelling Climate Action Plan for their school, combining real-world thinking and imagination.

    In a dynamic showcase of creativity and vision, students presented their ideas including AI-driven crop monitoring, reimagined kinetic walking and cycle paths, inspiring nature reserves, and tidal power solutions to help the planet.

    Other imaginative concepts included solar energy expansion, sensor-controlled street lamps, and moss-covered breeze blocks designed to clean the air.

    Judges from the world of business and local government were wowed by the ideas, depth of thought, and confidence of the student teams during live presentations and Q&A sessions.

    The Primary School Winner was Exwick Heights Primary School for their incredible vision for a town of the future with innovations including kinetic energy pathways, wind farms and a repair centre. Judges were impressed with how they had thought about the town as a whole and the lives people living there would lead and said: “This team gave a very comprehensive town vision with a strong presentation. Their moss-covered breeze block was brilliant.”

    The Secondary School Winner was Tor Bridge High for their innovative ideas to bring about climate action at their school immediately and in the long term. They shared how they had conducted detailed audits across four key areas of; energy consumption, efficiency and reuse; use, recycle and repurpose; upgrading the Science Garden; and rewilding the pond with a plastic bottle greenhouse and bug hotels.

    Judges praised the team for: “A clear focus on four areas, strong stakeholder engagement, excellent recycling targets, and realistic, identifiable actions.”

    All Saints Academy in Plymouth were highly commended winning the Teamwork Award whilst Whipton Barton Federation won the Presentation Award.

    As well as presenting their projects, students rotated through a LEGO Serious Play Zone run by Make Happy, where they used building principles to create sustainable towns, and a Minecraft Education experience, constructing digital green schools and cities using Minecraft Education’s Green Building Challenge.

    The judging panel included:

    • Jamie Brookes – Director of Green Funding Solutions, E.ON
    • David Lewis – Programme Manager, South West Net Zero Hub
    • Natalia Kasitz – Apprenticeship and Social Value Manager, Progressive
    • Jackie Brown – Operations Support Manager, E.ON
    • Joel Smith – Social Value Manager, Willmott Dixon
    • Paul Osborne – Green Infrastructure Project Manager, East Devon District Council
    • James Rayner – Project Manager, EX2 Group

    Jackie Brown, Operations Support Manager at E.ON added: “The teamwork, creativity, and passion were outstanding. I’m especially inspired by the water-bottle greenhouse—I’m going to try that at home!”

    Paul Osborne, Green Infrastructure Project Manager at East Devon District Council said: “The sheer creative energy behind these projects was incredible.”

    The Innovation Competition is just one of several Trust-wide initiatives, as part of their commitment to transforming lives and strengthening communities, designed to connect students and deliver opportunities outside the classroom to bring learning to life.

    Tim Rutherford, Deputy CEO at the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “Every day in our schools, I am uplifted by the incredible work of our brilliant students. This year’s Innovation Competition showcased children from a range of ages, all working together for many months to bring their ideas to life. It was inspiring to see them engage so thoughtfully, presenting innovative ideas backed by deep research and impressive collaboration.

    “As a Trust made up of 18 schools, all united by our values of ambition, selflessness, and collaboration, moments like these are truly special. It’s a privilege to come together as a community, challenge each other, and learn from one another.

    “A huge thank you to all the judges, sponsors, and special guests for their generosity of time and commitment. Your support plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of innovators, and together, we are making the world a better place. Congratulations to all the students who took part in this year’s competition!”

    Luke Moss, Skills Manager at Exeter College and GSAP Board Member added: “We are proud to be partnered with the Trust to host this exciting Innovation Competition, which showcased the extraordinary potential of young people across Devon. Watching students collaborate, problem-solve and present with such passion and purpose was truly inspiring. Events like this reflect our shared commitment to equipping young people with the skills our region needs for a sustainable future and we are honoured to have played a role in empowering the next generation of innovators and changemakers.”

    This year’s event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors: Coreus Group, ECO-TECH, Willmott Dixon, Progressive, Obell, E.ON, and EX2.

    Five students in grey blazers stood presenting to an audience on a small stage Four students in PE kits stood smiling on a small stage Six young students in uniform stood on a small stage with presentation notes in hand

    Five students stood smiling with medals around their neck

     

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  • Voices Rise in Harmony: Plymouth Students Dazzle in Citywide Choir Showcase

    Published 08/07/25

    Almost 200 students from schools across Plymouth, including All Saints Academy Plymouth (ASAP), came together in spectacular style this term, performing in front of a packed audience at the Plymouth Central Methodist Hall for a show-stopping musical celebration.

    The event featured students from multiple Plymouth schools, along with the vibrant Legacy Choir and Legacy Acapella Choir, all uniting on stage in matching T-shirts to deliver a joyful, high-energy programme of songs. The evening concluded with a rousing Disney medley finale, earning a rapturous standing ovation from several hundred proud parents and carers in attendance.

    The event was more than just a performance, it offered a powerful opportunity for students to grow in confidence, experience large-scale collaboration, and feel the energy of performing to a live audience.

    The choir from ASAP are already preparing for their next two performances at their school summer fayre and at All Saints Entertains in July.

    Lacey Tombs, Acting Headteacher at All Saints Academy Plymouth said:

    “This was an unforgettable experience for our students. To sing alongside so many other young people in front of such a large, supportive crowd was incredibly inspiring. Our students did brilliantly, we couldn’t be prouder.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said: 

    “What a fantastic example of community, creativity and confidence in action. Opportunities like this show the incredible talent and teamwork across our schools, and it’s a joy to see our students’ achievements celebrated so enthusiastically.”

    Two rows of students stood outside building smiling to the camera, all wearing green t-shirts. Two rows of students sat on chairs in church

     

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  • Isca Students Enjoy Thrill of Rugby at Twickenham

    Published 08/07/25

    This term students from Isca Academy had the experience of a lifetime as they travelled to the iconic Twickenham Stadium to watch the Premiership Rugby Final between Bath and Leicester Tigers, they even got to play a game of touch rugby on the pitch at half-time.

    Surrounded by over 81,700 passionate fans in the home of English rugby, the students soaked up the electric atmosphere as the closely contested match unfolded. The excitement and energy of the day created unforgettable memories and left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

    From the roar of the crowd to the thrilling action on the pitch, the trip provided a powerful insight into the dedication and spirit behind elite sport. Isca Academy, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is proud to offer such enriching opportunities that inspire students and help broaden their horizons both on and off the field.

    Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

    "This was much more than just a trip, it was a memorable experience that our students will cherish for years. From the grandeur of the stadium to the excitement of live sport, it truly showed them what it means to be part of something special. We’re proud to provide opportunities like this."

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    "The Ted Wragg Trust is dedicated to transforming young people’s lives, and this trip perfectly illustrates how shared experiences beyond the classroom inspire aspiration, build connections, and boost confidence. Congratulations to the Isca Academy team for making it happen!"

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  • St Luke’s Student Becomes Youngest Ever St Boniface Medal Winner

    Published 07/07/25

    A 15-year-old student from St Luke’s Church of England School has made history as the youngest ever recipient of the prestigious St Boniface Medal, awarded by the Bishop of Exeter during a special service at Exeter Cathedral.

    Caitlin James, a Year 10 student, was recognised for her exceptional voluntary work as a Mental Health Champion and her ongoing dedication to community service. She was one of just 11 individuals inducted into the historic Company of St Boniface this June.

    The St Boniface Awards honour those who embody the values of service, compassion, and faith in their churches, schools, and communities, both locally and internationally. Named after Devon’s patron saint, the accolade is one of the most significant civic recognitions in the county.

    At St Lukes, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust,  their Mental Health Ambassadors have been instrumental in creating positive changes within the student support services. Always ready to offer a listening ear and guidance, they have made a profound impact on the students they support, providing a safe and welcoming space for those in need. They won the Student Community Leadership Award at the Ted Wragg Awards in October 2024 for their unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of others.

    Caitlin James said:

    “I feel honoured to get this award. It’s amazing to have this sense of accomplishment for what I do. Since my mum died it inspired me to be better. Instead of letting it get to me, I pushed forward and tried to make a difference. I know I’m making my mum proud, which is lovely. Even if you feel like you are not making a difference, you really are. The little things do matter and over time it gives you a great sense of accomplishment.”

    Mr Harrison Littler, Headteacher at St Luke’s C of E School said:

    “Caitlin is a truly special student whose resilience, empathy, and commitment to supporting others are an inspiration to us all. We are incredibly proud of her achievement, it’s a powerful example of what young people can do when they lead with heart.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “This is a shining example of the values we strive to nurture across our schools. Caitlin’s courage, service, and compassion reflect not only her character but the spirit of our wider school community. Everyone at the Ted Wragg Trust is immensely proud to see her recognised in such a meaningful way.”

    Student on the left wearing a medal around her neck stood with the bishop Student speaking into a microphone held by the bishop

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  • Ted Wragg Primary Schools Unite for Day of Football Fun

    Published 07/07/25

    Primary schools from across Devon came together this month for the Ted Wragg Trust football tournament, a full day of fast-paced football, fantastic teamwork, and fierce but friendly competition.

    Hosted under blazing sunshine, the tournament saw pupils from across the trust's primary schools display incredible sportsmanship, resilience, and determination, with every match full of passion and positive spirit.

    After a series of exciting games, Exwick Heights Primary School emerged as the overall winners.  But in truth, every team left a winner, having taken part in a day that celebrated fair play, friendship, and fitness.

    The event took place on the 3G pitch at the Marine Academy Campus. The pitch, which opened last year, was funded by the Ted Wragg Trust, Plymouth City Council, Tiger Turf and a grant from the Football Foundation. 

    The tournament is part of the trust’s commitment to providing exceptional opportunities for all pupils, building character as well as skill, and giving children the chance to learn, lead, and succeed beyond the classroom.

    Plans are already underway for next year’s tournament, with even more schools expected to take part in what is fast becoming a highlight of the trust’s sporting calendar.

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

     "Events like this are a brilliant example of what our trust is all about, bringing children together, raising aspirations, and showing that success can be measured in joy, effort and teamwork as much as trophies. A huge well done to all involved, especially the staff who made the day possible."

    Photo of a football pitch with children playing under a blue sky. Pupils sat in a row on the football pitch, with a row of pupils stood behind celebrating their win and wearing their green football kit

     

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  • Isca Academy Earns RHS Level 1 Gardening Honour

    Published 04/07/25

    Isca Academy students have been recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) for their blossoming gardening efforts, proudly achieving their Level 1 Gardening Award.

    The achievement marks a significant first step in the school’s mission to promote sustainability, outdoor learning, and wellbeing through gardening. The award came with a bundle of goodies, including seeds for the year ahead, an inspiring book on the power of gardening for mental and physical health, and a beautiful certificate which now takes pride of place in school.

    But this is just the beginning, now working towards their Level 2 RHS Award, the green-fingered team at Isca have exciting plans ahead, including collecting wildflower seeds for their new flower bed, designing and building raised beds for growing produce, planning a sensory garden to support wellbeing, and creating a dedicated planting and potting workspace.

    As part of the Ted Wragg Trust, Isca Academy is committed to enriching students’ lives through unique opportunities and gardening is proving to be a powerful tool for learning, creativity and health.

    The school is still welcoming donations to support the next stage of the project. Items on the wish list include soil, gardening tools, materials for raised beds, and any spare seeds. Any donations can be dropped off at reception.

    Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

    “This award is a wonderful recognition of the hard work and enthusiasm shown by our incredible students, and Mrs Malton who’s been the driving force behind this project. Gardening is not just about growing plants, it’s about nurturing resilience, teamwork and wellbeing. We’re so proud of our students and can’t wait to see what they grow next.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “It’s inspiring to see students connecting with nature in such meaningful ways. Initiatives like this don’t just make schools greener, they cultivate life skills, pride and a sense of purpose. Huge congratulations to the whole team at Isca for leading the way in this area.”

    A section of the school garden bounded by a fence. Dirt ground with pots of flowers dotted around and benches at the far end against the fence. Two students gardening surrounded by foliage Two students in their uniform gardening in the grass

    Photo of the certificate in a frame in front of a window and plants

     

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  • Cranbrook’s EX5-Alive Hub Celebrates a Year of Life-Changing Community Impact

    Published 03/07/25

    The EX5-Alive Community Hub, based at Cranbrook Education Campus (CEC), has marked a transformational year with over 13,000 support interactions delivered for local families and individuals across the EX5 area.

    Backed by the National Lottery Community Fund, the hub has become a lifeline for many, delivering emergency food support, mental health referrals, housing guidance, and inclusive activities ranging from toddler groups to teen drop-ins and adult social clubs.

    In just one year, the hub has supported over 250 asylum-seeking, migrant, and refugee families, helped coordinate over 10 new community groups, and facilitated three major town-wide events.

    From providing emergency baby packs to counselling sessions and organising community bingo nights, the hub has become a trusted space where residents can connect, be heard, and thrive. Through collaborative partnerships, such as with Inspiring Connections Southwest, the hub has generated more than £200,000 in funding to serve a growing and diverse town.

    Looking ahead, the hub is focused on securing long-term sustainability and expanding its volunteer network. With the planned move to the new Health and Wellbeing Centre on the horizon, EX5-Alive is calling on partners and funders to help safeguard its future and continue delivering for the heart of Cranbrook.

    Cranbrook Education Campus, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is a school rooted in its community where aspirational learning and opportunities transform the lives of pupils. The school is so thankful for the Hubs dedication to reaching and supporting vulnerable families with compassion so that every family feels supported, valued, and empowered. 

    Stephen Farmer, Head of Campus at Cranbrook Education Campus said:

    “At Cranbrook Education Campus, we are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of EX5-Alive and their commitment to helping our most vulnerable families. Whether through attendance support, food security, or simply being there to listen, they are creating real change. Together, we are breaking down barriers and building a stronger, more compassionate Cranbrook.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “EX5-Alive exemplifies what community partnership should look like. Their commitment to transforming lives and empowering voices within Cranbrook is truly inspiring. We are proud to support their journey and look forward to the continued impact they will make.”

    One student in yellow apron whisking cake batter in a bowl. Stood in white kitchen.Two students stood in kitchen in yellow aprons, in front of hob.

    Students stood in group around kitchen counter baking.

     

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  • Ted Wragg Teams Tackle South West Coast Path in Epic Challenge

    Published 03/07/25

    190 determined Year 8 students from four schools within the Ted Wragg Trust, including Isca Academy, Honiton Community College, St James School and West Exe School, took part in the 2025 Jurassic Coast Challenge last month, showcasing resilience, teamwork, and sheer perseverance.

    The event, which takes place along the dramatic South West Coast Path, started in Lyme Regis and offered three route options: Bronze (10 miles to Branscombe), Silver (16 miles to Sidmouth), and Gold (23 miles to Budleigh Salterton). Despite heavy rain the day before creating treacherous, muddy terrain, the students rose to the occasion with courage and camaraderie.

    The teams battled the elements and supported one another throughout the day. Of the 36 teams who started, 19 completed the Bronze distance, 14 made it to Silver, and 3 exceptionally determined teams reached the Gold finish line at Budleigh Salterton, a phenomenal feat. 

    The event wasn't just about the distance, students received glowing praise from members of the public for their manners, positivity, and team spirit.

    The Jurassic Coast Challenge continues to be a highlight in the school calendar, offering students a memorable opportunity to develop confidence, independence, and a love for the great outdoors. The challenge is designed to spark an interest in future outdoor pursuits such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Ten Tors.

    Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

    "We are incredibly proud of every single student who took part. The Jurassic Coast Challenge pushes limits both physically and mentally, and to see our young people face that with smiles, encouragement, and determination was truly inspiring. This experience will stay with them for life."

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    "This is what education beyond the classroom is all about, resilience, collaboration, and character-building. To see so many of our students take on such a difficult challenge with courage and kindness makes us extremely proud.

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  • Lipson Students Look to the Future with University Mentors

    Published 01/07/25

    Lipson Co-operative Academy is pleased to have taken part in the University of Plymouth’s ‘Opportunity Plymouth’ celebration event this term, marking another successful year of the life-changing mentoring programme.

    Since September 2021, the ‘Opportunity Plymouth’ initiative has provided Year 10 students across the city with one-to-one mentoring from trained university students. Meeting weekly for ten weeks, students receive guidance on post-16 choices, build confidence, set future goals, and gain insight into a wide range of career and education pathways.

    The mentoring model helps students envision a clear and motivating version of their future self, a powerful driver in achieving long-term success.

    The programme is now in its fourth year, led by Associate Professor in Education, Dr. Suanne Gibson. Its success is built on collaboration, between schools, students, and university mentors and a shared commitment to inclusion, personal growth, and future-focused learning.

    Lipson Co-operative Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, looks forward to continuing its involvement with the University of Plymouth and helping more students visualise their futures with confidence and purpose.

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

    “We are incredibly proud of the impact Opportunity Plymouth has had on our students. The mentoring builds their confidence, helps them see what’s possible, and makes them feel supported as they look ahead. It’s empowering, inspiring, and completely relevant to the world they’re navigating.”

    Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

    “Programmes like Opportunity Plymouth are essential in helping young people unlock their full potential. They build bridges between education stages, inspire ambition, and offer real-world advice in a way that feels personal, timely and empowering. We’re proud to be part of it.”

    Two rows of students stood facing camera, in a classroom in front of a presentation screen Students sat in blue chairs Students kneeling on a gray floor practicing CPR on a dummy

     

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  • From Paella to Penalty Shootouts: A Spanish Adventure to Remember for Plymouth Pupils

    Published 30/06/25

    Marine Academy Primary pupils have just returned from an unforgettable residential trip to Spain and what a journey it was!

    The week was filled with enriching experiences: exploring avocado farms, cooking traditional paella, spending time with local students at the Spanish school CEIP Narixa, and embracing the Spanish language and lifestyle.

    Whether enjoying sun-soaked beach days or competing in a friendly international football match that ended in a dramatic 4–4 draw, pupils embraced every moment with enthusiasm and respect.

    Marine Academy learners displayed exceptional MAP manners throughout the visit and represented their school and city with pride. They immersed themselves in Spanish culture with curiosity and confidence, whether trying local breakfasts or connecting with their peers in a different language.

    A huge thank you goes to the dedicated staff who brought this trip to life with a particular mention to community ambassador Ms Bell, whose year-long commitment and passion for global learning made the experience possible.

    Children particularly enjoyed exploring organic farm land belonging to Finca El Piñero. With its mango trees, kumquats and warm-hearted hosts, it left a lasting impression on everyone involved about the importance of climate change on our eating and growing habits. It also allowed children to explore the need for the tourism industry to support income streams of traditional farms. The experience has sparked imaginations and left pupils wondering: where will their next global adventure take them?

    Marine Academy Primary, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, believes that residential experiences like these are far more than just trips—they are opportunities to grow. By stepping beyond their familiar surroundings, pupils develop independence, resilience and a deeper understanding of the world around them.  In fact, this is the schools second international residential of the year following a trip to Paris.

    Exposing children to new cultures and environments beyond their immediate community is essential for building their global awareness. These experiences enrich their understanding of diversity, challenge assumptions and help foster empathy and respect. When children see the world through different lenses, they are better equipped to find their place in it.

    Georgina Reid, Headteacher at Marine Academy Primary, said:

    “Our Spanish residential was a powerful, life-shaping experience. It gave our pupils the chance to build cultural capital and discover their place in a wider world. They came back with increased confidence, curiosity and more connected to the global community. I couldn't be prouder of how they embraced every challenge and represented our school."

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

    "Opportunities like this are at the heart of the Ted Wragg Trust mission: to provide exceptional experiences for every child, regardless of background. Marine Academy Primary is showing that global learning can begin at a young age—and that ambition knows no borders."

    Students wading in the shallows of the sea, with sand in the foreground of the photo Students sat on wall facing camera smiling Students sat in a line on a sea wall facing the camera. In the distance you can see the sea and hills

    One student stirring a big pan of paella in a garden Two students stirring a big pan of paella in a garden Students stood in a group on a path with trees each side facing the camera

    Students stood in a line on the sea front with the sea and hills in the distance Students stood in a group holding spanish flag. In the distance is hills and a long bridge

     

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