76 Year 9 students from Honiton Community College (HCC) have returned from Paris after a whirlwind adventure packed with iconic sights, shared challenges, and unforgettable memories.

Accompanied by seven dedicated staff members, the students took part in a five-day tour that included visits to the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré Coeur and Montmartre, the Louvre, and a relaxing river cruise through the heart of the city. The trip was topped off with a full day at Disneyland Paris and a cultural dive into a traditional French hypermarket.

The school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, would like to say a massive thank you, or merci, to language teacher Lisa Cooper, the staff lead behind this extraordinary experience. Her meticulous planning, care, and commitment made the adventure possible.

Importantly, the Jack Riley Trust provided generous support to ensure that disadvantaged students could take part in the trip. Thanks to this and the school’s own efforts, all families requiring financial assistance were supported, without the need for additional fundraising.

On the Saturday morning, students braved long queues and scorching sunshine at the Eiffel Tower, where many demonstrated great determination walking up to the viewing platforms. That same day, after enjoying a scenic boat cruise along the Seine, the group narrowly missed a dramatic hailstorm, which began just after they boarded the coach.

Although poor weather on Saturday prevented students from swimming as planned, spirits remained high and they were able to enjoy pool time on Sunday instead. That evening brought new experiences for many, including tasting snails, met with a variety of reactions, and dancing the night away at a lively disco. For those who preferred a quieter evening, a friendly game of football rounded off the day.

Another memorable moment came on Sunday when the Champs-Elysées Avenue was completely car-free, offering students the rare and surreal experience of walking straight up the centre of the iconic road toward the Arc de Triomphe. This pedestrian initiative occurs just once a month and added a truly unique twist to the trip. 

The trip was not only a cultural and educational success, but also a powerful opportunity for students to grow in confidence, independence, and resilience. Honiton Community College is proud of the way its students represented the school, and themselves, throughout this memorable adventure.

Caroline Brothwood, Headteacher at Honiton Community College said:

 "This trip represents everything we value at Honiton – opportunity, culture, and confidence-building beyond the classroom. For our students to experience the Eiffel Tower, hear French spoken in real life and navigate a new city with their friends was incredibly powerful. I’m so proud of how our students represented the college – and so grateful to the staff, particularly Lisa Cooper, for making it all happen."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

 "Trips like this ignite curiosity and create lifelong memories. I’m thrilled to see Honiton Community College delivering rich, inclusive experiences that show students the world is theirs to explore.”

 

Year 5 pupils from Whipton Barton Federation stepped out of the classroom and into the future this term with an inspiring visit to ‘The Gardens’, an eco-friendly housing development led by Classic Builders.

As part of their ongoing innovation project focused on designing a sustainable town of the future, the children have been exploring Passivhaus principles, cutting-edge design approaches that minimise environmental impact. On their visit they saw those very principles brought to life.

From touring homes under construction to watching the site’s towering crane in action, the pupils gained a hands-on understanding of how sustainable buildings are made. Site Manager Kevin and his team generously gave their time, answering insightful questions and showing the children features such as rainwater harvesting systems and energy-efficient construction techniques.

At the Whipton Barton Federation, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, part of their mission is to provide rich, purposeful learning that prepares children for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow and this trip encapsulated that perfectly.

Louise Moretta, Executive Headteacher at Whipton Barton Federation said:

 "This visit was a fantastic opportunity for our children to connect their learning with the real world. Seeing sustainability in action not only inspired them, but also helped them realise their own potential to shape the future."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

 "At the Ted Wragg Trust, we believe in giving young people meaningful experiences that raise aspirations. The curiosity, enthusiasm, and critical thinking shown by the Whipton Barton pupils on this trip is exactly what we hope to nurture in all our schools."

  

 

 

Year 2 pupils from Cranbrook Education Campus (CEC) have enjoyed an exciting and educational trip to the Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life, immersing themselves in the realities of life during World War II.

The interactive visit gave pupils the opportunity to explore air raid shelters, hear the sounds of wartime sirens, and learn about rationing, evacuation, and farming during the 1940s. To top it off, children even took part in traditional playground games that children would have played during the war, bringing the past vividly to life in a hands-on and memorable way.

As part of the Ted Wragg Trust, the trip forms part of Cranbrook Education Campus’s wider commitment to rich, experience-led learning that makes the curriculum come alive for its youngest learners. The visit was a powerful reminder of how local resources can enrich education far beyond the classroom.

Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life is a treasure trove of fascinating objects and quirky artefacts that weave incredible stories about the people who lived locally. The galleries show everything from lace making to laundry, bicycles to brewing and carts to costume. 

Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life was started by a few energetic individuals concerned that many of the objects and much of the information about Tiverton and the surrounding areas would be lost if nothing was done to collect them in the rapidly changing post-war world.

Krisha Gandhi, Head of Primary & Senior Deputy Head of Campus, at Cranbrook Education Campus said:

“It was a truly wonderful day. Our Year 2 pupils were fully engaged and curious throughout the visit. Learning history in such an immersive environment helps children build empathy and a deeper understanding of the past.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“This is exactly the kind of experience we champion across our schools. It’s about inspiring children through meaningful, real world connections with their learning. We’re proud to see Cranbrook pupils exploring history in such an engaging way.”

  

 

 

St Luke's Church of England School is proud to share that they have been awarded the Bronze Mental Health Charter Mark, a recognition of their strong and ongoing commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of both students and staff. 

This award celebrates schools that place emotional wellbeing at the heart of their community, recognising that positive mental health is key to building resilience, confidence, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges. 

At St Luke’s, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, student Mental Health Ambassadors have played a vital role in strengthening student support services. Always approachable and compassionate, they’ve created a safe, supportive space for their peers, offering a listening ear and meaningful guidance. Their commitment to student wellbeing was recognised in October 2024 when they received the Student Community Leadership Award at the Ted Wragg Awards, celebrating their lasting impact and leadership. 

The school offer a range of support, from Poppy the therapy dog to wellbeing drop-ins and access to the school counsellor, to support students with their mental health. In their report from last year Ofsted inspectors noted this commitment, commenting that pupils learn to look after their physical and mental health, such as mindfulness time in tutor periods.  

All schools in the Ted Wragg Trust are undertaking the Mental Health Charter Mark and Isca Academy has also received the Bronze Award already.  

Harrison Littler, Headteacher at St Luke's  Church of England School said: 

"We are incredibly proud to receive the Bronze Mental Health Charter Mark. It reflects the deep commitment of our staff, students, and especially our Mental Health Ambassadors, who work tirelessly to make St Luke’s a safe, supportive, and nurturing place for everyone." 

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

"At the Ted Wragg Trust, we believe that supporting emotional wellbeing is fundamental to helping young people thrive. St Luke’s has shown outstanding leadership in this area, and this award is a testament to their inclusive, compassionate culture and the powerful role student voice plays in shaping it." 

Exwick Heights Primary School is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded full funding from the School-Based Nursery Capital Grant initiative. This grant will enable the school to expand its nursery provision by repurposing existing space within the building, allowing it to welcome two-year-olds for the first time. The funding will also enhance provision for three- and four-year-olds, ensuring more local families have access to high-quality early childhood education.

The School-Based Nursery Capital Grant is part of a long-term commitment by the government to expand school-based nurseries across England. Eligible state-funded primary schools can apply for this funding to improve or increase their nursery facilities. 

The grant is part of a nationwide effort to support schools in increasing access to high-quality early years education and ensure that children have the best possible start to their educational lives. 

The nursery expansion is the first stage of a broader initiative at Exwick Heights Primary School to improve and grow its educational offerings. This will support local families by offering more accessible, high-quality early education options.

At Exwick Heights, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, children in the nursery follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, which provides a carefully sequenced, ambitious framework for their learning.  Through a mix of indoor and outdoor play, guided learning, and adult modelling, children develop essential skills such as language, social interaction, physical coordination, literacy, and mathematical understanding. 

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

“We are thrilled to have been awarded this grant. This funding will allow us to further invest in the early education of our youngest learners and create an enriched environment that supports their growth and development. Expanding our nursery provision is a key part of our ongoing commitment to provide quality education from an early age and help our children build a strong foundation for their academic journey.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“We are delighted to see Exwick Heights Primary School receive this grant to expand its nursery provision. Investing in early years education is crucial for setting children up for future success, and this funding will help provide a nurturing, high-quality environment for our youngest learners. It’s a fantastic step forward in our commitment to supporting families and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive from the very beginning of their educational journey.”

  

 

A record 134 students from seven schools within the Ted Wragg Trust successfully took on the legendary Ten Tors Challenge this past weekend, demonstrating outstanding resilience, teamwork and determination across the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor.

Representing 23 teams across 35, 45 and 55-mile routes, students from Exmouth Community College, Honiton Community College, Isca Academy, Queen Elizabeth’s School, Sidmouth College, St James School, and West Exe School battled the moor’s unpredictable weather and challenging terrain to complete one of the UK’s most iconic youth endurance events.

Ten Tors is a uniquely demanding challenge that sees thousands of teenagers in teams of six navigate self-supported routes of up to 55 miles over two days. Carrying everything they need for the journey, including food, shelter and equipment, participants must be physically and mentally prepared to face all conditions.

Isca Academy led the charge with five full teams completing the challenge, with every participant finishing as a full team of six. Notably, student Melody joined a struggling team from another school, helping guide them to the finish line in a remarkable display of leadership and compassion.

“It’s hard to pick out standout performances as there were so many,” said Roger Adams, a science teacher at Isca Academy. “All of these young people demonstrated independence and strength in an event most adults could never do. We are enormously proud.”

Sidmouth College celebrated another triumphant year, maintaining a 100% completion rate for over five years. One of their teams even finished second on their route, a huge achievement in such a demanding event.

“They absolutely smashed it,” said a leader from Sidmouth College. “The toughest selection process we've had in years—and every single one of them earned their place.”

Exmouth Community College saw all three of their teams of six finish and West Exe School had an eventful time of it, as their three teams got started but a technology glitch meant their whereabouts were tricky to pin down on the first day.  Many thanks to the Army who provided regular updates on their progress!  On the second day all the West Exe teams showed great pace and an early start ensured that they finished the event in some of their quickest times ever.

The 45-mile team from Queen Elizabeth’s School showed exceptional leadership, stopping mid-route to assist an unconscious walker from another school, administering first aid until medics arrived, earning them an extended time allowance and the school’s heartfelt pride. Both of QE’s 35-mile teams completed the event successfully, with QE A finishing at 14:30 and QE B, in memorable banana outfits, finishing at 15:18.

The Ten Tors Challenge continues to stand as one of the UK’s most demanding and rewarding youth outdoor events, coinciding with National Walking Month, a national campaign that highlights the many benefits of walking for physical health, mental well-being, and enjoying the great outdoors.

What sets Ten Tors apart is its sheer scale and ambition, and its focus exclusively on young people. Training and preparation, overseen by participating schools and organisations, begin months in advance to build the resilience, navigation skills, and teamwork needed to succeed. It’s a true test of character as terrain, distance, and unpredictable weather make the challenge formidable, but with the right preparation and attitude it’s definitely achievable.

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“The Ten Tors Challenge represents everything we stand for as a trust - resilience, courage, and a deep commitment to personal growth. Every student who took part has achieved something extraordinary, and we could not be prouder of them.  I also want to say a big thank you to all the staff and volunteers who made the event possible.”