THE MOST SUCCESSFUL TEAM IN TA HISTORY
A truly incredible day for our football programme.
Our Year 8 boys delivered an outstanding performance against last year's elite national cup winners Aldenham school, showcasing determination, discipline, and superb teamwork throughout. Goals from Teddy Shobbrook and Freddie Thatcher capped off a display full of character and quality, helping the team secure a place among the top four teams in the country.
Every single player made us immensely proud, and they got exactly what they deserved. Historically, we’ve never made it past the quarter-final stage in the national cup, but the lads smashed through that barrier today and did it in style.
Please don’t underestimate what a monumental achievement it is to reach the final four in the entire country in such an exceptionally competitive tournament. We are now excited to see who we get in the semi-final, and the boys should fear no one going forward.
A huge thank you to everyone who travelled to Watford to support the team, it really helped get them over the line, seeing the pride from both coaches and parents.
That’s a game, and as a result, that will stay with us for a very long time.
You can read a summary of our teams' progress in the Team TA section below.
Art with Mrs Lithgow
This week Mrs Lithgow's Year 7 classes have completed their vibrant Day of the Dead project, exploring Mexican art and pattern. Students used frottage and collage techniques to create bold Mexican-inspired patterns, before letting their imaginations run wild designing playful skeleton characters. The project concluded with a skull assessment drawing, where pupils demonstrated growing confidence with colour pencil and pen, focusing on detail, pattern and tone. They worked incredibly hard on these tasks and have produced beautiful sketchbook pages.
This week Mrs Lithgow's Year 9 have been exploring clay for the first time, learning how to use the slabbing technique to create relief tiles inspired by the photography of Matthias Hock and the architectural features found around the school grounds. Students focused on structure, texture and form, translating photographic detail into clay. Next, they will study the work of John Piper to develop more ambitious sculptural outcomes, drawing inspiration from local churches and their distinctive architectural qualities.
Torquay Cadets – A Busy Few Weeks of Training and Development
It has been a particularly busy and productive few weeks for Torquay Cadets, with cadets across all sections fully engaged in a wide range of training activities designed to develop skills, confidence, and teamwork.
The RAF Section has been working hard in preparation for the upcoming RAST competition, focusing on developing their knowledge, teamwork, and practical skills. Training has been purposeful and well-paced, with cadets demonstrating strong motivation and commitment as they prepare to represent the contingent.
Meanwhile, the Year 8 Army Cadets have been getting to grips with the fundamentals of cadet training. Drill sessions have introduced the importance of discipline, teamwork, and pride in personal standards, while classroom-based lessons have covered essential knowledge including the phonetic alphabet and Morse code, developing clear communication skills.
Cadets have also taken part in first aid training, learning how to respond in emergency situations and developing skills that are valuable both within the CCF and in everyday life. Drone training has provided an exciting opportunity for cadets to engage with modern technology, improving spatial awareness, responsibility, and teamwork.
In addition, basic fieldcraft training has introduced cadets to operating in outdoor environments, including movement, observation, and personal concealment. These sessions have challenged cadets to work together, think tactically, and build resilience.
Overall, the past few weeks have showcased the enthusiasm and dedication of Torquay Cadets, with strong progress being made across all areas of training. Cadets continue to develop not only practical skills, but also confidence, leadership, and a sense of pride in belonging to the CCF.
fun friday
Fun Friday brought a fantastic atmosphere across the school this week, with each year group enjoying a different activity at lunchtime.
Year 9 took on a quiz, working in teams and showing great enthusiasm as they competed through a range of questions and challenges.
Year 10 enjoyed the ever-popular Sweets in the Jar, putting their estimation skills to the test with plenty of careful guesses and friendly competition.
Year 11 finished the week with Higher or Lower, bringing energy and laughs as students tried to make the right calls and climb their way to the top.
Another great Fun Friday that helped students connect, unwind and end the week on a high.
cross fit
Our Year 11 students have experienced challenging and engaging CrossFit sessions in their core P.E lessons that focus on improving their overall fitness through varied, high-intensity workouts. They have taken part in activities that develop strength, cardiovascular endurance, agility, and teamwork, while learning how to perform movements safely and effectively. The sessions have encouraged students to push their limits, build confidence, and support each other, helping them understand the importance of resilience, motivation, and consistent effort in physical activity.
Art with Mrs Lynch
Mrs Lynch’s Year 10 students are currently working on an ‘Identity’ project, which has allowed them to work independently and ultimately produce artwork that is both personal and unique.
For their Cycle 2 Art Assessment, students have studied a fascinating art project that originated in Russia in the early 2000s, entitled Face Your Pockets.
The initial idea behind the project was to use scanography as a means of self-expression. Participants empty their pockets (or bags) onto a flatbed scanner, place their face (or part of it) on the scanner, and then press “scan.” The result is a single scanned image that captures both the individual and the objects they carry.
This project encourages self-expression by revealing something personal about each individual through the everyday objects they carry — keys, receipts, trinkets, coins, notes, and more — alongside their face. It becomes a portrait of identity told through possessions.
The project is also playful and intimate. The scan results often appear surreal, with flattened faces and floating objects, and the work explores ideas of voyeurism and personal narrative.
Students were then challenged to draw their scanned portraits onto A3 paper. The results speak for themselves: a collection of fabulous, intriguing drawings that fit perfectly within the ‘Identity’ project.
house countdown
Year 7 students recently took part in an exciting House competition inspired by the popular TV show Countdown, with a Torquay Academy twist.
Pupils worked in their House teams to tackle a series of word and number challenges, testing their problem solving, teamwork and quick thinking. The competition created plenty of excitement, with teams racing against the clock to score points and gain an advantage for their House.
The event was a great opportunity for students to work together, build confidence and enjoy some friendly competition, with strong support and encouragement shown throughout.
Well done to all Year 7 students who took part and contributed to a fun and engaging House event.
learning legend
Students of the Week
Year 7 - Noah Harding and Evie Voisey
Year 8 - Frederick Sintim and Pandora Ferguson
Year 9 - Daisy Dorman and Riley Johnson
Year 11 - Josh Parkinson and Farrah Ambrose-Paradise
U14 Netball progress in sisters in sport
Wow, just wow! What a performance and what a win for the U14 squad as they progress into the South Semi-Finals of the National Knockout.
From the moment the girls stepped into the changing room, their focus and determination were clear. They listened carefully to the pre-match talk, fully committing to the tactical plan and the importance of team play, and carried this mindset straight onto court. From the very first whistle, they came out strong, composed, and ready to compete.
The team were exceptionally well-drilled, applying consistent pressure throughout the court and giving the opposition very little time or space. Every turnover was capitalised on, with the ball moved at speed through court and converted confidently into goals. This relentless pressure and clinical execution left the opposition with very few opportunities to disrupt their rhythm.
The girls responded brilliantly to coaching points, implementing them instantly and effectively, showcasing not only their skill but their game awareness and coachability. The teamwork, encouragement, and overall standard of netball on display were phenomenal, highlighting just how special this squad is.
A truly outstanding team performance; one to be incredibly proud of as they move forward in the competition.
Squad: Matilda Thorner, Seren Chadwick ©, Eva Thompson, Emilee, Madison Wood, Elena Bolton, Lily Langler, Isla Bryant, Zenna Venter
Opposition's Player of the Day: Seren Chadwick & Emilee Fenner
Players' Player of the Day: Seren Chadwick & Emilee Fenner
Coach's Player of the Day: The Whole Squad! (Everyone was phenomenal!!)
u15 state schools championships
The girls faced a day of challenging fixtures against strong opposition and showed great resilience throughout the tournament. As the day progressed, their confidence and cohesion continued to grow, with clear improvements in both performance and decision-making on court.
They finished the tournament on a high note, securing a strong win and pushing the eventual overall winners to a narrow defeat in a closely contested match. Across the day, there was some excellent netball on display, with strong teamwork, determination, and moments of real quality that reflected the girls’ hard work and development. They finished in an impressive 4th place! Well done girls!
Squad: Matilda Thorner, Isla Bryant, Eva Thompson, Molly Hollomby ©, Emilee Fenner, Madison Wood, Alexa Lyons ©, Seren Chadwick
Oppositions Player of the Day: Matilda Thorner
Players Player of the Day: Matilda Thorner
Coaches Player of the Day: Emilee Fenner
sixth form
The Sixth Form squad travelled to North Devon to face Petroc College in what proved to be an impressive and disciplined performance.
The match began as a tight contest, with both teams trading goals and finishing the first quarter locked at 10–10. Following a quick and focused team talk at quarter time, the girls stepped up a gear. Defensive pressure increased across the court, resulting in crucial turnovers, while possession was valued far more effectively to create clear scoring opportunities. These turnovers were converted confidently into goals, allowing the team to take control of the game.
Their improved composure, polished play, and constant encouragement for one another saw the momentum firmly swing in their favour, heading into the second half with a commanding eight-goal lead.
The girls maintained their focus throughout the second half, continuing to apply consistent defensive pressure and execute well-timed attacking moves. Precision passing through court, combined with accurate and confident shooting, ensured they extended their lead and closed out the match emphatically with a 57–24 victory.
A fantastic all-round team performance, showcasing determination, discipline, and excellent netball throughout
Squad: Elspeth Herring, Tammy Westacott ©, Ellie Stone, Rosie Clarke, Millie Sneap, Summer Connolly, Chloe German, Eve Cameron
Opposition's Player of the Day: Tammy Westacott
Players' Player of the Day: Millie Sneap
Coach's Player of the Day: Eve Cameron
Torquay Academy Football: A Record-Breaking Year Across the National & Elite National Cups
What a year it has been for football at Torquay Academy. Across boys’ and girls’ teams, from Year 7 all the way to Year 11, our squads have pushed boundaries, broken records, and shown the country exactly what TA football is all about: courage, ambition, and a relentless competitive spirit.
Below is a round-up of what has truly been one of our most successful seasons to date.
Year 7 – A First Taste of the National Stage
Our newest cohort wasted no time announcing themselves. In their first-ever Elite National Cup campaign, the boys battled all the way to the last 16, an outstanding achievement for a fresh Year 7 team. Their trip to London to face Hampton School proved a valuable learning experience, one that will no doubt fuel next year’s push even further.
In the ESFA National Cup, they again impressed, reaching the last 64. A strong Millfield side eventually halted the run in tough conditions, but the foundations have been firmly laid for an exciting future.
Year 7 B Team – The Story Gets Even Better
Not to be overshadowed, the Year 7B squad have put together a fantastic run of their own. They are now in the last 16 of the National Cup, with a big fixture versus Meole Brace School booked for 6th February. A brilliant season that continues to build momentum.
Year 8 – Making History
The Year 8s have been nothing short of spectacular.
In the Elite National Cup, they are current semi-finalists, having knocked out last year’s champions, Aldenham School, in a statement performance. They have now achieved the furthest cup run in Torquay Academy history at this age group.
In the ESFA National Cup, they prepare for a huge last 16 clash against Beechen Cliff next week. A golden generation? They’re certainly playing like one.
Year 9 – Fighting Spirit on Show
The Year 9s can be incredibly proud of their efforts on both fronts. In the Elite National Cup, they reached the last 32, falling 5–3 in a brave, attacking display against a top Millfield side.
In the National Cup, they advanced to the 4th round, and again pushed Millfield all the way—leading for much of the game before two late goals swung the tie. A season marked by resilience, quality, and heart.
Year 10 – A Strong National Presence
The Year 10s showed their class throughout another strong campaign.
In the Elite National Cup, they reached the last 16, but met a high-quality Millfield team who edged the tie 4–1.
In the ESFA National Cup, the boys progressed to the last 64, with several impressive wins along the way. Their run was ended by Gillingham School in a tight 3–2 contest that could have gone either way.
Year 11 – A Talented Squad Battling to the End
Our senior squad looked sharp from the outset, storming into the last 64 of the National Cup before facing a familiar opponent—Millfield once again. Despite a committed performance, TA couldn’t quite overcome the U16 powerhouse.
Lightning struck twice as Millfield also eliminated the team from the Elite National Cup in Round 2. Nevertheless, the Year 11s leave behind a competitive and determined legacy.
Girls’ Football – A Year of Growth & Breakthroughs
U12 Girls – A Strong Start to Their TA Journey
In their first-ever season, the U12s brought energy, goals, and excitement, reaching the last 64. They eventually met a strong Bournemouth School for Girls side, but their run sets the tone for an exciting future.
U13 Girls – A Promising Debut
Also in their first year together, the U13s made it to the 3rd round, only narrowly losing 4–3 to a powerful Uffculme squad. A brilliant opening campaign.
U14 Girls – Flying the Flag High
The U14 girls continue to shine on the national stage. They currently sit in the last 16 of the National Cup and face Backwell next week, with real belief they can go even further.
U15 & U16 Girls – True Team Spirit
Both teams reached the 3rd round of the National Cup—an outstanding achievement, especially considering many squad members are new to football and stepped in to support the team. Their commitment and willingness to compete epitomise the spirit of girls’ football at TA.
A Season to Celebrate
Across all age groups—boys and girls—Torquay Academy teams have reached levels never seen before. From historic semi-final runs to courageous battles against some of the best footballing schools in the country, this season has showcased:
determination
teamwork
growth
and a belief that TA belongs on the national stage
With more fixtures still to come and momentum stronger than ever, the future of football at Torquay Academy looks incredibly bright.
TABLE TENNIS - Devon Schools Individual Table Tennis Championships
On Wednesday, 15 of our top players competed across their age groups, with many progressing to the knockout stages.
Well done to Aleksandra, who finished 2nd in the U16 Girls, winning 4 out of 5 matches.
In U16 Boys, Harrison and Gustaw both won their groups and reached the quarterfinals.
In U13 Boys, Evan and Oliver also reached the quarterfinal stage.
Fantastic effort from all our players - we are very proud of you.
YEAR 7 BOYS START STRONG IN THE COUNTY CUP
After licking their wounds from the national cup exit the boys had the chance to have a reset and go again with a fresh focus in a new competition. The aim of the week's training has been about togetherness, working on and off the ball as one. They showed some good signs against Sir John Hunt and were rewarded for their hard work with some well taken goals. Throughout the game the boys started to show better understanding of roles within the team, this then helped open up the game even more and their quality started to shine even more with more goals to follow. Goals on the day: Shia x4, Ru x2, Leo x2 and Marcus and Luke with 1 each. Players voted Nathan the player of the match.
House netball
prestigious Diamond Award
Year 7 - Bonnie Beedle-Grigg
Governor’s Gold certificates
Year 7 - Dolly Peart and Ruby Hand
Governor’s Silver certificates
Year 7 - Aisha Dunkley-Kennedy, Maisy Sellick, Oakley Johnson, Alya al Ali, Rupert Jones and Heni Ujj
Governor’s Bronze certificates
Year 7 - Immy Weeks, Scarlett Paton, Mylo Jury, Hugo Harding-Beattie, Shia Davidson, Isaac Armitage and Mason Bond
Year 8 - Karen Shaju, Liv Andrews, Karim Taha and Myla Thomas
Year 9 - Jessica Stoyle, Logan Payne, Alexa McCarthy, Seth McCann, Christopher Csapo, Emily Bowden, Immy Shaw and Summer Reed
Principal’s Gold certificates
Year 7 - Svetlin Yordanov, Chloe Leese, Crystal Anning-Bragg, Cody Aguilana, Joshua Randall, Alfie King, Marlie Coussell, Roni Bates and Taylor Norgaard-Welsh
Year 8 - Sara Szewczuk, Laura Mercer, Sienna Frost, Owen Brown, Zofia Bocianowska, Ethan Nichols and Oscar Anderson
Year 9 - Morley Villiers, Leo Shaw, Harry Rowlands, Ava McArdle, Nanma John, Grace Gatting, Toryn Bond, Sofia Adamson, Oktawian Siennicki, Jessica Ferguson, Harry Austin and Frederick Blagden
Principal’s Silver certificates
Year 7 - Toby Wright, Chloe Sanderson, Isaac Bell, Coby Ingham Owens, Olivija Marsalkaite, Kaitlyn Blades and Louise Ennis
Year 8 - Achilles Richards, Jude Nwachukwu, Macy Hickman, Riley House, Bella Cassidy, Dee Davies, Isla-Mae Gale, Paisley Taylor, Laila Stuttaford, Jack Lennox-Statham and Evie Jewell
Year 9 - Jessica Munnangi, Hydie Munday, Keylan Hodgson, Flo Evans, Tyler Davis, Seren Panther-Glinn, Katie Tonks, Ellie-Mae Burton, Elena Bolton, Zachary Kittow and Rosco Biagott
Principal’s Bronze certificates
Year 7 - Karolina Marsalkaite and Jasmine Hartrey
Year 8 - Eve Truscott, Oscar Manley, Blake Hawkes, Jessica Green, Pandora Ferguson, Josie Cotton, Myah Bishop, Kai Parton, Samuel McDonald, Lexi Johnson and Alex Nicholson
Year 9 - Mia Wilkins, Myah Sellick, Cole Coussell, Ellie Palmer, Summer Dockrey, Bobby O'Regan, Freya Brown, Aaliyah Akpo, Xanthe Tyson, Daisy-Mae Rees, Toby Preston and Ted Dudley
Year 10 - George Evans and Olivia Pope
Year 11 - Freya Mealin, Nea Joshy, Jude Wiltshire and Connor Dean
House stars of the week
Year 7
Brunel - George Bailey
Christie - Jax O'Connor
Darwin - Logan Mansell
Fawcett - Troy O'Shea
Harrison - Jasper Dawson
Kitson - Lucas Worrall
Nearne - Romeo Collins
Pengelly - Immy Weeks
Year 8
Brunel - Beni Paplogo
Christie - Freddie Thatcher
Darwin - Simeon Manners
Fawcett - Abi Harkin
Harrison - Zafira Faral
Kitson - Nicholas Robinson
Nearne - Rocco D'Allassandro
Pengelly - Eve Truscott
Year 9
Brunel - Emily Redmond
Christie - Ruby Turner
Darwin - Jessica Ferguson
Fawcett - Mia Piewizsko
Harrison - Ollie Hallett
Kitson - Luke Moran
Nearne - Haidi Milner
Pengelly - Lucas Veasely
Homework Stars of the Week
Year 7
Brunel - Taylor Noorgard-Welsh
Christie - Rupert Jones
Darwin - Ethan Graham
Fawcett - Maddison Pearce
Harrison - Emelia Essiful
Kitson - Freddie Osborne
Nearne - Aisha Kennedy
Pengelly - Esme White
Year 8
Brunel - Finley Thompson
Christie - Chlose Eales
Darwin - Fi Bellamy-Hall
Fawcett - Isla-Mae Gale
Harrison - Jacob Caldwell
Kitson - Ethan Nichols
Nearne - Millie Beamish
Pengelly - Lincoln Trapp
Year 9
Brunel - Maddie Smith
Christie - Esmie Riggs
Darwin - Jax Biagott
Fawcett - Poppy Evely
Harrison - Oaklie Chancellor
Kitson - Ava McArdle
Nearne - Isla Bryant
Pengelly - Jenson Tandy
Sparx Leaderboards
Tassomai Leaderboards
sparx reader leaderboards
