willow represents england
We are delighted to share some incredible news. Willow has now been officially recognised as an International Athlete.
Last weekend, she represented England for the very first time at the Caledonia International 2025. Despite being the youngest gymnast in the entire competition, with some competitors up to three years older, Willow rose to the occasion and delivered a superb performance.
Across all four pieces she showed calmness, consistency and real competitive maturity, playing a key role in helping Team England secure the bronze medal.
Her individual achievements were just as impressive. Willow finished 5th in the all-around, and qualified for the floor final where she placed 6th. It was a weekend full of major milestones:
• First international competition
• First time representing England
• First international medal
• First qualification for a major final
A huge congratulations to Willow on this remarkable achievement. We could not be prouder of her.
Plymouth University Trip for Year 11
Last Tuesday and Wednesday, 130 of our Year 11 students visited Plymouth University, offering them a real taste of higher education. The visit was designed to help them understand university life and to find out about their higher education options.
Our girls and boys had the invaluable opportunity to meet university student ambassadors during a Q&A session and during a campus tour. This allowed them to see various departments, including the impressive marine engineering facilities, the dentistry department, the student union, laboratory facilities and the geography department. They even got to see inside student accommodation, visiting a showcase room to help them understand what it's really like to live on campus.
Beyond the tours, our students gained a practical understanding of student finance and loans and experienced a taste of university-level lectures. It was particularly inspiring for them to see that university students are indeed people just like them, and we were lucky enough to bump into Torquay Academy alumni now thriving at Plymouth.
Our Year 11s were fascinated by everything they saw and learned, and they were fantastic ambassadors for our school. We hope this experience has ignited a passion for learning and opened their eyes to the exciting journey that university can offer, especially as it was followed shortly afterwards by our sixth form open evening and careers day including their mock interview experience.
A Level Art & Photography Trip to Plymouth – Trip Review
Our recent 6th form Art and Photography trip to Plymouth was a fantastic success, offering students a rich blend of cultural inspiration, visual research, and hands-on photographic exploration.
We began our visit at The Box, where students were able to immerse themselves in a wide range of exhibitions spanning history, fine art, and contemporary visual culture. The museum’s striking architecture and thoughtfully curated displays provided valuable material for contextual studies, sketchbook development, and personal investigation themes. Many students found themselves particularly inspired by the eclectic mix of artefacts and artwork, sparking new ideas for their coursework.
After exploring The Box, we spent the afternoon photographing around Plymouth, taking advantage of the city’s diverse urban landscape. From the cities modern architecture and textured backstreets, Plymouth offered countless opportunities for students to practise composition, experiment with manual settings, and gather a broad portfolio of images for future projects. The changing weather conditions challenged students to think creatively about light, mood, and narrative within their photographs.
Throughout the day, students demonstrated curiosity, maturity, and a genuine enthusiasm for developing their artistic and photographic skills. It was a rewarding opportunity for them to step outside the classroom, engage with professional-level artwork, and stretch their visual thinking.
Mrs Lynch said the trip was both enjoyable and highly constructive, and is looking forward to building on this experience in upcoming lessons and future visits.
personal development day
Year 7 students continued with first aid from the last PD day, with sessions on either CPR or the recovery position. We had a streamed version of the theatre company’s ‘Invictus’, which is about resilience, overcoming adversity & mental health, including different forms of childhood adversity and inspiring hope. Linked to this, a talk from a visitor from ‘Children and Family Health Devon’ about mental health and where to get support.
This is reinforced with a session on what can affect wellbeing and resilience (e.g. life changes, relationships, achievements and employment) and describing a range of healthy coping strategies and ways to promote wellbeing and boost mood and describe a range of healthy coping strategies. Other sessions included those looking at changing emotions and how to deal with worry, linking to the session on puberty, which looked at mental and physical changes that happen at this time. The remaining session looked at the difference between a legal and an illegal drug. Issues surrounding the dangers of taking legal drugs were identified and linked to the consumption of caffeine.
Year 8 students also had the streamed version of Invictus and a talk from a visitor from ‘Children and Family Health Devon’ about mental health and where to get support.
This was reinforced with a session on recognising that some circumstances may lead to intense emotions that may be difficult to manage, but that there are a range of positive strategies for managing these difficult emotions. Two sessions looked at drugs- One topic explains the legal terms ‘possession’, ‘supply’ and ‘intent to supply’ in relation to drugs and the short- and long-term legal consequences of being found in possession of, using, selling or supplying different classes of drugs. The second looks at drugs and their effects- students identify health risks associated with occasional and problematic substance use and recognise myths related to cannabis use and drinking alcohol. In another topic, students learned what is meant by contraception and the reasons for the use of condoms and the contraceptive pill. We signpost where and how to get contraception and advice on contraceptives. We looked at some of the consequences of being a parent and the qualities required to be a good parent. The remaining sessions related to money: A look at where money comes from – now and in the future, and how a student can plan to spend and save it. We highlighted the difference between good debt and bad debt and compared financial products. The final topic helps students identify signs of online scams and the measures needed to stay secure online. We looked at the range of sources of support and reporting channels when reporting an account or device compromise.
In addition to the talk on Mental Health, Year 9 students also had an inspirational talk by Chris Lubbe. The remaining sessions were connected to either relationships or health. Sessions on relationships looked at what it means to be in a committed relationship and the forms this might take. A session looked at how to form safe friendships online, protecting identity and the consequences of sexting. Another topic made it clear to students that if someone does not have the freedom or capacity to consent by choice, no one has the right to assume they are consenting. The last topic explained the importance of protecting identity and the risks involved in revealing your personal information. Sessions on health included first aid- how to deal with a wide range of injuries. The remaining session looked at the characteristics of a healthy lifestyle including the links between an inactive lifestyle and ill health, including cancer and cardiovascular ill-health. We looked at the importance of taking increased responsibility for one's own physical health including dental check-ups, sun safety and self-examination
Year 10 students had a range of visitors. In addition to the mental health session, the ‘School of Sexuality’ are back for another session. Students updated their Unifrog profiles.
The theme of alcohol and drugs continued with a session on different internal and external influences affecting decision-making and strategies for managing peer influence in increasingly independent contexts. We also looked at the terms stalking and harassment and associated behaviours and what to do if someone feels they or someone they know is the target or perpetrator of stalking or harassment. A longer session looks at ways we can improve our learning by modifying our health and behaviour. Then we have 2 sessions on work. One analysed how local, national and global labour markets can affect the careers people choose to explore and how personal circumstances may affect career choices and job preferences. The other compared different types of post-16 qualifications, setting realistic career goals and planning how to reach these.
Year 11s had talks from the mental health team and Chris Lubbe. Other sessions looked at choosing whether to have cosmetic procedures and sunbeds and how to ensure we are safe during these procedures. We also looked at safety linked to alcohol, how to identify signs that someone’s personal safety may be at risk and we identified barriers to asking for help when personal safety is at risk, and explain how to overcome these. We prepared for exam stress by learning to identify signs of exam stress in themselves and spot the signs of it in others. Students learned to select and use strategies to help them manage exam stress, including revision techniques. We also looked at how to be safe on the road with a car. We looked at steps to be taken to get on the road and issues connected to car insurance. We also looked at scams and fraud with particular emphasis on insurance. For the future, we looked at the options of university or college, how to cope with living independently and the rights we have in our employment. Each student also had the opportunity of an interview with a local employer- see separate blog post.
Our students in Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 had the experience of a mock interview as part of our personal development day on Tuesday.
More than 25 local employers have up their time to support our students with a mock interview, asking questions such as, ‘what makes you a good employee?’ And ‘tell me about a time when you have had to work as a team?’
Many of the employers commented on how prepared and confident our students were and what a credit they were to Torquay Academy.
Mock interview day is a special careers date in the TA calendar, and our Y11, Y12 and Y13 did us proud!
mountain relaunch
This week, our Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 students received their refreshed and updated Career Mountain to mark the start of Cycle 2.
The Career Mountain helps students visualise their journey towards achieving their future ambitions. It outlines the steps, choices and opportunities available to them as they progress through school and work towards their dream career. During Monday’s relaunch, students explored the skills required for their chosen pathway, the extra-curricular activities that can support their development, and suggestions for gaining experience in the workplace. We also discussed potential salaries within their chosen careers and what these might look like as monthly earnings.
To build students’ confidence in talking about their Career Mountain, we are focusing on six key questions:
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What mountain are you climbing?
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What do you need to achieve to climb your mountain?
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What route are you going to take to get there?
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What do you need to improve to climb that mountain?
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What excites you about your mountain?
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What would you change about your mountain?
All staff — and visitors to Torquay Academy — will be encouraged to ask students these questions, helping to embed this language and mindset into our school culture.
We would love for you, as parents and carers, to join in these conversations at home. Asking your child about their Career Mountain will not only spark fantastic discussions but will also help them stay motivated and focused as they work toward their future.
More Bronze and Silver DofE Success for DofE students!
Monday this week saw another celebration of DofE success for students from Year 10, 11, 12 and 13. Fourteen Bronze and four Silver certificates with badges were presented. Deserved confirmation of success, and recognition of hard work, resilience and commitment from TA students who are prepared to go the extra mile. DofE Awards are the most prestigious young persons character development awards in the world, and every year increasing numbers of our students enrol on the Awards and are successfully completing them. Bronze and Silver levels of the Award require a commitment to a Physical, Skills and Volunteering activity over a 3, 6 or 12 month period, plus the gruelling expedition - 2 days, 1 night at Bronze, and 3 days, 2 nights at Silver.
Once again the activities the students participated in were extremely diverse. In the Physical section students were undertaking activities such as gym fitness; netball; basketball; football; rugby; table tennis; cycling; Ten Tors training; distance running; and dance. In the Skills section students were developing skills in learning musical instruments; drill and marching in cadets; navigation; learning languages; and performing arts. And in the Volunteering section students coached younger students in athletics, netball football, cricket, dance and gymnastics; read, played games and assisted with some care work to elderly care home residents; assisted with organising, cleaning and cataloguing the outdoor education equipment; supported the Green Power team with marshalling; and supported younger scouts to develop their scouting skills. Some amazing activities undertaken by TA students that really help, support and inspire their local community with positive action.
These successes are testament to the rising aspirations of our young people here at TA. Our students recognise the value of DofE awards, in addition to their academic achievements, in applying for employment, college and university places.
Congratulations to the following students:
Bronze - Anastasiia Tukilush, James Beer, Emily Cowan, Kiara Ujj, Izzy Goldsbrough, Ed Rackley, Aleta Stojic, Poppy Sanderson, Ivan Masliakovas, Gustaw Adamczak, Will Wrathall, Alexa Lyons, Matt Campan (all Year 10), Charlie Wise (Year 11)
jungle gym
We are excited to share that work has begun on a brand new jungle gym on our school grounds. This project has been in development for some time, and we are delighted to see it taking shape.
The new equipment has been carefully chosen to support our students’ physical development, confidence and wellbeing. Climbing, balancing and active play are important parts of childhood, helping students build strength, coordination and resilience while enjoying time outdoors with their friends.
Once completed, the jungle gym will provide a vibrant space for play, movement and fun during breaks and lessons that involve outdoor activity. It reflects our continued commitment to creating an environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
We are grateful to everyone who has helped bring this project to life, and we look forward to seeing our students enjoying the new equipment very soon.
Fun Friday at TA
Another brilliant end to the week at Torquay Academy as students enjoyed a packed programme of Fun Friday activities.
Year 7 and Year 8 filled the Platform with music as our live DJ kept the energy high and the requests flowing. It was great to see so many students singing along, dancing with friends, and starting their weekend with a smile.
Year 9 put their knowledge to the test with a competitive quiz, with plenty of teamwork and some impressively quick answers.
Year 10 gathered around to guess the number of sweets in the jar, with some remarkably close predictions and plenty of hopeful contenders.
Year 11 rounded things off with a classic game of Higher or Lower, complete with tension, cheers, and a few dramatic swings of fortune.
A huge well done to everyone who took part and helped create such a positive atmosphere. What a way to finish the week!
Music with miss graham
Over the last eight weeks, our Year 10 music students have shown great commitment towards their music qualifications. They have been working incredibly hard, tackling both practical and written elements of the course, knowing that this assessment contributes significantly to their final qualification in Year 11.
The Year 10s have spent time rehearsing and polishing ensemble performances, while completing detailed written rehearsal logs, reflections, and evaluations to fully document their rehearsal process.
Their efforts were celebrated last Tuesday, when the class showcased their finished pieces to an audience of Year 8 students, Sixth Formers and staff which will be sent off to the exam board as part of the evidence needed towards their qualification.
This was a great opportunity to perform to a live audience as they had put in a lot of hard work and even made decisions about their use of stage presence, costume and lighting.
Throughout this process, they have demonstrated not only impressive musical skill and technical progress on their instruments but also maturity and professionalism in managing their time and refining their work.
A huge well done, Year 10.
english with miss elson
This cycle, Miss Elson's Y10 English class has started on the second of their GCSE Literature texts: Dickens' A Christmas Carol! After only a few lessons spent reading and discussing the book to gain an understanding of the characters and Scrooge's transformation across the narrative, they have already displayed a wonderful sense of the key themes of the text and how Dickens' message of social reform is expressed through his book.
The students' understanding of the novella was really demonstrated in P1 when they used whiteboards to identify characters by descriptions and important quotations, as well as remembering vocabulary such as 'mammon', 'philanthropy' and 'myopia' by definition. Every question posed by Miss Elson was answered with ease and each student really showcased how carefully they'd been listening and engaging over the past few lessons. There was even time to draw their best caricatures of Scrooge and Tiny Tim!
In their most recent full lesson, the students have moved on to applying their newfound knowledge to an extract from the text with the goal of preparing to answer the question: How does Dickens present the character of Scrooge? After reading through the extract, students had to independently pick out and highlight the evidence they thought would be the most useful, using their understanding of the novella's key messages to help them unpick the text - just as they would have to in their final exam. We then broke down one particular quotation in detail as a class, focusing on small sections and thinking about how we could use Scrooge as a symbol of the Victorian elite as a whole.
After independently selecting and explaining a second quotation to support those ideas, students were then asked to think about other moments or quotations in the novella they could use to build on (or juxtapose) their ideas from the extract - again, just as they would have to do in the exam.
All the students truly rose to the occasion and really displayed the resilience, curiosity and application of knowledge that will lead them to success with their GCSEs next year. Miss Elson is very proud!
Students of the Week
Year 7 - Ella Woodgates, Logan Mansell & Elisha Abraham
Year 8 - Riley Piercy and Liv Reed
Year 9 - Heidi Milner and Shae Craig
Year 11 - Nya Bettridge and Mihai Marin
football round up
The last month has been so busy with 21 games since half term! Our boys and girls have had a tremendous start to the National Cup, and we are proud to see the development and progress of all our year groups.
u16 girls
Our U16 girls travelled to Monkton Wood Academy for their National Cup fixture, fielding a squad that combined regular players with several students making their football debut. From the first whistle it was clear that this would be a closely contested and physical game.
The first half was evenly matched, with both teams working hard and creating chances. We went into the break at 1–1, a scoreline that reflected the determination shown across the pitch.
In the second half Monkton began to edge the game, carving out opportunities and taking one to move 2–1 ahead. What followed was a dramatic five-minute spell. We earned a penalty but narrowly missed, and Monkton responded quickly by scoring their third to secure the win.
Despite the result, we could not be prouder of the team. The girls who stepped in for their first ever match showed real courage, and those who play weekly worked tirelessly to support their teammates throughout.
Players of the Match went to Sienna and Farrah for their outstanding contribution, and our goal was scored by Maisie.
A brilliant effort from all involved. Well done, girls.
year 7 girls
Our Year 7 girls continued to grow as a team with an excellent win against Torquay Girls’ Grammar School this week. They are all settling in well, and it has been wonderful to see their personalities and confidence emerging with each game.
It was a great team performance with goals from:
Mila (4), Dolly (2), Hope (2), Phoebe (1) and Faith (1).
A fantastic result and another step forward for this developing group.
year 7 boys
Our Year 7 boys have earned themselves a trip to London for the next round of the National Elite Cup after a hard-fought victory against Ivybridge. Following a slow start, the team raised their performance in the second half, showing the hunger and desire we look for in our players. Once they found that extra level, the results quickly followed.
Goals on the day came from Jaxon, Eli and Shia.
A superb achievement and an exciting opportunity ahead for the team.
year 8 boys
Our Year 8 B team played Ivybridge last week in a really close game that had to be decided by the dreaded penalties. Unfortunately, that was the way we had to lose that day but I’m sure the boys will be chomping at the bit for some more action after Christmas
u13 girls
On a freezing and wet day last week, our U13 girls travelled to Uffculme for their National Cup match. The team faced a difficult start as they worked to manage Uffculme’s high-pressure approach, but they showed real determination and resilience to level the game in the second half.
In the final ten minutes, Uffculme proved too strong and added two more goals to secure the win. Despite the result, it was an excellent learning experience for the girls and a performance they can take real confidence from as they continue to develop.
Player of the Match went to Mila.
A proud effort from all involved.
year 8 boys
Our Year 8 boys were fired up for this fixture after last year’s narrow county semi-final defeat to Braunton. Now stepping up to the full 11-a-side format, the team showed real maturity and took control of the game from the outset.
Their dominant performance throughout earned them a well-deserved place in the next round of the National Cup. The boys played with confidence, discipline and intent, demonstrating how far they have come as a group.
We now look ahead to an away tie against Coombeshead in the next round.
A strong team display and a great step forward for the squad.
u15 girls
Our U15 girls put in a gritty performance against a very strong Exmouth side in the National cup. With a couple of our starters not in school we were always going to have to dig deep with just one sub and a few girls playing their first match of the season after long term injuries. The girls never gave up and were a credit to themselves and the school. Exmouth progressed into the next round with a 4-0 victory.
u14 boys
The U14 boys narrowly edged out St Luke’s in a hard-fought match on grass. The team had to adapt quickly and adjust their game plan, but their discipline paid off as they took the lead and held on to secure progression to the next round. This result set up a home fixture against Millfield.
In the second match, the boys delivered one of their strongest performances of the season, narrowly losing 2–1 to an exceptionally talented Millfield side. We took an early lead through Calum Carpenter, and the team executed the game plan superbly, limiting Millfield to just three shots across the entire match.
Although Millfield converted two chances in the final fifteen minutes, the boys can take enormous pride in their display. Their work rate, organisation and togetherness were outstanding.
Two excellent performances that reflect how far this group has come.
u14 girls
U14 girls put in a solid performance against Eggbuckland winning 4-0 to progress in the National cup, setting up a tough challenge against Ivybridge on the 10th December. These matches are always close and we look forward to the challenge.
u16 boys
Our U16 boys faced a very strong Millfield team in the early rounds of the National Cup. A difficult start saw us fall 2–0 behind within the first ten minutes, leaving the boys with a mountain to climb. To their credit, they responded with real resilience and lifted their performance to get back into the game.
Their hard work was rewarded when we pulled a goal back to make it 2–1, and the second half saw a transformed display full of energy and belief. As we pushed forward in search of an equaliser, inevitable gaps appeared, and Millfield capitalised to extend their lead and secure the win.
Despite the result, the character shown by the team was excellent and provides a strong foundation to build on. We now turn our attention to St Luke’s this week as we look to get back to winning ways.
u15 boys
Our U15 boys delivered a gritty and determined performance to overcome Braunton Academy and book their place in round five of the National Cup. Playing on a heavy, boggy grass pitch that made conditions difficult and levelled the contest, the team showed real resilience and found a way to win.
The victory also provided satisfying redemption after last year’s semi-final defeat on penalties.
TA took the lead when Alex Moss reacted quickest to a loose ball and calmly lifted it over the advancing goalkeeper. Moments later, Lee Stevens doubled the advantage with a superb 20-yard free kick curled into the top corner. Braunton pulled one back with the final kick of the first half.
An early second-half goal from Braunton brought the scores level, setting up a tense finish. The game was decided by a moment of real quality. Jami Tully drove down the wing, hurdled two sliding tackles and delivered a perfect cross for Alex Moss to head home his second of the match.
TA will now face either West Exe School or Gillingham School at home in the next round.
A fantastic performance full of character and quality.
year 10 vs trinity
Fantastic performance from our U14 netball squad at Exeter University
Our U14 squad travelled to Exeter University on Monday after qualifying for the county round of the National Schools competition, and they certainly rose to the occasion.
Throughout the day, the team played some fantastic netball, securing impressive wins against tough opposition and narrowly missing out in a couple of games by just a single goal. That one-goal loss in the pool stages, unfortunately, denied them a place in the semi-finals, but it didn’t dampen their determination.
They showed brilliant resilience, regrouping confidently to produce some excellent performances in the positional playoffs. Their hard work was rewarded with a strong final win, earning them 7th place overall—a superb achievement in a competition with over 20 schools.
Even more impressive is knowing that we only lost by one goal to the eventual finalists! This talented squad has so much potential, and it’s incredibly exciting to see what the future holds for them.
Team: Lily Langler, Matilda Thorner, Eva Thompson, Elena Bolton, Ellie-Mae Burton, Zenna Venter, Isla Bryant, Madison Wood (C), Emilee Fenner, Abigail Harkin
Oppositions Player of the Day: Emilee Fenner / Maddy Wood / Matilda Thorner / Elena Bolton
Players' Player of the Day: Matilda Thorner
Coaches' Player of the Day: Matilda Thorner
Year 8 Netball League Success
Our Year 8 A and B squads took to the court on Tuesday for their centre venue league matches, bringing brilliant enthusiasm and energy from start to finish. Their positivity and determination shone through and contributed to some excellent performances across both teams.
A Team:
The A squad delivered a very strong set of performances, showcasing hard work, cohesive team play, and some fantastic netball throughout the afternoon. Their efforts earned them a well-deserved draw in their first match, followed by two impressive wins. Facing tough opposition, the team proved just how much they’ve progressed—showing they can confidently compete with the top teams in the league. Well done, girls!
Squad: Eva Thompson, Zenna Venter ©, Mimi Skelly, Milly Skelly, Ela Uven, Mia Kost, Isabella Hughes
Opposition's Players of the Day: Eva Thompson / Mimi Skelly / Ela Uven
Players' Player of the Day: Ela Uven
Players' Player of the Day: Isabella Hughes
B Team:
The B squad also put in a determined effort on court. Although they narrowly lost both of their matches, their improvement and growing confidence were clear to see. They defended brilliantly to turn over possession, linked well through the court, and scored some exceptional goals. A fantastic effort—well done, girls!
Squad: Dee Davies ©, Bella Stevenson, Lottie Forrester, Myah Bishop, Chloe Eales, Josie Cotton, Lucy Stevens
Oppostion's Players of the Day: Lucy Stevens / Myah Bishop
Players' Player of the Day: Lucy Stevens
Players' Player of the Day: Lottie Forrester
Both teams should be incredibly proud of their performances. Exciting progress all round!
Sixth Form Netball
The 6th Form squad showed outstanding resilience, teamwork, and spirit in their Cup match this week. From the outset, the team faced considerable challenges, with several injuries and illnesses affecting the squad. Despite this adversity, they pulled together brilliantly, supporting one another and stepping onto the court determined to give their best.
The match began as a tightly contested battle, with a very close first quarter that demonstrated the squad’s composure and effort. Unfortunately, further illness struck mid-match, forcing the team to adapt once again. They showed superb versatility, adjusting combinations and continuing to work tirelessly across the court.
Although they made things difficult for the opposition and fought hard throughout, the pressure eventually told, and the opposing team pulled ahead to secure the win.
A huge well done to the squad for their incredible attitude and support for each other. And a special congratulations to Matilda Thorner, who stepped in at the last minute when we were down to just six players—your contribution was hugely appreciated!
Squad: Tammy Westacott ©, Summer Connolly, Elspeth Herring, Rosie Clarke, Millie Sneap, Eve Cameron, Ema Ketell, Matilda Thorner
Opposition's Player of the Match: Tammy Westacott
Players' Player of the Match: Summer Connolly
Coaches' Player of the Match: Eve Cameron
Year 7 Netball
We rounded off a busy week of netball with the Year 7 central venue league—and what a fantastic afternoon of matches it was!
A Team:
The A squad showcased some brilliant netball against tough opposition in the top division. They demonstrated a wide range of skills they’ve developed throughout the season and fought hard in every match. Their through-court defence was outstanding, consistently winning turnover after turnover, and they worked tirelessly to convert these into goals. A brilliant effort from the whole squad.
Squad: Mia Carter, Isabella Hughes ©, Isabelle Beer, Lucy Stevens, Ava Medway, Amelia Drew, Maddison Pearse, Dolly Peart
Opposition's Player of the Day: Dolly Peart / Lucy Stevens / Isabelle Beer
Players' Player of the Day: Isabelle Beer
Coaches' Player of the Day: Maddison Pearse
B Team:
The B team enjoyed an incredible day, winning all three of their matches! Their improvement was clear for everyone to see, and they showed just how much potential they have as a developing squad. It was especially pleasing to see the players responding to coaching points and working hard to apply them on court—such maturity and determination from a young team.
There is so much exciting potential across the entire Year 7 Netball Academy, and we can’t wait to follow their journey as they continue to grow and shine!
Squad: Katie Hornbrook, Evie Voisey, Grace Sampson, Ella Austin, Zara Isemede ©, Amelia Garvey, Amelia Lyons
Opposition's Player of the Day: Zara Isemede / Amelia Garvey
Players' Player of the Day: Amelia Garvey
Coaches' Player of the Day: Ella Austin / Grace Sampson / Zara Isemede
Year 7 Rugby
This team are going from strength to strength through regular training and competed brilliantly at the South Devon Tournament last week.
Year 11 PE
In Core PE, we have teamed up with 4Aces Health Club to offer our Year 11 students the opportunity to use their new Golf simulators, where they can ‘play’ at any of the best courses in the world. The students who went this week had a great time and are already looking forward to next week.
Table Tennis - World Youth Championship
Almost ten years ago, Kacper and Jakub - joined a table tennis camp led by Paul Drinkhall and Gavin Evans. It was the beginning of a journey neither of them could have imagined.
Last week, those same four stood together again - but this time, preparing Kacper for one of the biggest stages in youth table tennis: the World Youth Championships in Romania.
Some stories write themselves - and this one feels very special.
Kacper is one of only 32 athletes worldwide to qualify in the Under-15 category - earning his spot through his world junior ranking.
Kacper said: “I’m really proud to be here. I don’t have a specific result target - this is a rare opportunity, so I just want to give everything and enjoy it.
If I’m in the right mindset and playing my game - smart, close the table and confident - I believe I can challenge anyone.”
Kacper has been training at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield, with support from Paul Drinkhall and Gavin Evans, and sparring with high-level partners - including his brother, Jakub, Junior National Champion.
The venue:
This is not just a moment. It is a milestone. A reminder that dreams grow - one session, one challenge, one belief at a time!
House stars of the week
Year 7
Brunel - Louise Ennis
Christie - Isaac Armitage
Darwin - Beau Luker-Hulme
Fawcett - Hope Jelly
Harrison - Jake Anyon
Kitson - Cody Aguilana
Nearne - Finn McCaul
Pengelly - Izzy Beer
Year 8
Brunel - Olly Finley-Squires
Christie - Amelia Woodland
Darwin - Poppy Pope
Fawcett - Jack Parker
Harrison - Alex Skorzewski
Kitson - Chloe Bastow
Nearne - Ajay Squires
Pengelly - Joe Matthews
Year 9
Brunel - Eric Montague
Christie - Seren Chadwick
Darwin - Mila Cairney
Fawcett - Kara Breach
Harrison - Emilee Fenner
Kitson - Seth McCann
Nearne - Viktoria Simunkova
Pengelly - Tia Woodward
Homework Stars of the Week
Year 7
Brunel - Max Newman
Christie - Hugo Harding-Beattie
Darwin - Freddie Gaggini
Fawcett - Bobby Shannon
Harrison - Freddie Drein
Kitson - Maisy Sellick
Nearne - Ella Bindon
Pengelly - James Cooper Darby
Year 8
Brunel - Gracie Ritson
Christie - Nora Gordon
Darwin - Simeon Manners
Fawcett - Kayden Harper
Harrison - Mason Beardsley
Kitson - Alfie Carpenter
Nearne - Olivia Fisher
Pengelly - Liv Reed
Year 9
Brunel - Toby Preston
Christie - Rosie Bevan
Darwin - Jelani Ondo-Chamielec
Fawcett - Riley Gomes
Harrison - Ayrton Sharp
Kitson - Grace Gatting
Nearne - Lilly Shaw
Pengelly - Lyra Sully
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