Welcome to Dartmouth Academy
At Dartmouth Academy, our guiding mission is simple yet powerful: Be your best self. We believe that our future successes are built on the work we do today, and every member of our community: staff, pupils, and families is committed to this shared purpose.
As an all-through Academy, we value the strength of long-lasting relationships with our pupils and their families. Our place at the heart of the community allows us to know every child personally, creating a nurturing environment where they feel safe, valued, and supported.
Our core values of courage, compassion, and ambition shape everything we do. We encourage our pupils to be courageous in their learning, to show compassion in their interactions, and to pursue their goals with ambition and determination. These values are embedded in both our aspirational curriculum and the way we relate to each other every day.
We know that children flourish when they are truly seen and supported. Our staff create academically rich learning experiences while recognising and responding to the individual barriers each child may face. This approach ensures every pupil is given the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.
From the moment pupils join us in the Early Years Foundation Stage, we instil the belief that success is not defined by ability alone, but by the effort and resilience they bring to their learning. This belief is captured in the mantra we live by: Be Your Best Self.
Through a united effort between home and school, and with our unwavering commitment to courage, compassion, and ambition, we help every child become the best version of themselves—today and for the future they are building.
Paul Girardot
Principal
Latest News
View allReading Across Borders: Dartmouth Academy Joins International Literacy Partnership
Dartmouth Academy is thrilled to announce its participation in the UK–Ukraine Reading for Pleasure Partnership, an initiative funded by the British Council and supported by the Department for Education. This exciting programme connects schools in the UK and Ukraine to celebrate the joy of reading, share ideas, and inspire a lifelong love of books among pupils.
Recently, Miss McKay from Dartmouth Academy attended the opening conference in Poland, where she met teachers from both countries and explored innovative strategies to make reading more engaging for children. As part of the programme, Class 1/2 at Dartmouth Academy has been partnered with a class of children in Ukraine. The partnership aims to encourage reading for pleasure while encouraging cultural understanding and building meaningful connections between communities.
Class 1/2 will meet their partner class online shortly after half term to begin collaborative reading activities. This initiative is part of a wider programme connecting 100 schools across the UK and Ukraine, supporting schools to use reading as a tool to develop pupils’ wellbeing, confidence, and international awareness.
Dartmouth Academy looks forward to sharing updates as the project develops and celebrating the connections built through the power of reading.
Miss McKay from Dartmouth Academy, said:
“Oksana, our partner teacher in Ukraine, was an inspiration. She loved our approach to reading and shared some of their practices, which we’re excited to explore with our pupils. This partnership is a fantastic opportunity for our children to expand their horizons, build confidence, and enjoy reading while learning about a different culture.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said:
“We are delighted that Dartmouth Academy is taking part in this exciting UK–Ukraine partnership. Projects like this open up the world to our pupils and it’s wonderful to see our schools creating meaningful international connections while inspiring children to enjoy reading.”
Reading Across Borders: Dartmouth Academy Joins International Literacy Partnership Dartmouth Academy is thrilled to announce its participation in the UK–Ukraine Reading for Pleasure Partnership, an initiative funded by the British Council and supported by the Department for Education. This exciting programme connects schools in the UK and Ukraine to celebrate the joy of reading, share ideas, and inspire a lifelong love of books among pupils. Recently, Miss McKay from Dartmouth Academy attended the opening conference in Poland, where she met teachers from both countries and explored innovative strategies to make reading more engaging for children. As part of the programme, Class 1/2 at Dartmouth Academy has been partnered with a class of children in Ukraine. The partnership aims to encourage reading for pleasure while encouraging cultural understanding and building meaningful connections between communities. Class 1/2 will meet their partner class online shortly after half term to begin collaborative reading activities. This initiative is part of a wider programme connecting 100 schools across the UK and Ukraine, supporting schools to use reading as a tool to develop pupils’ wellbeing, confidence, and international awareness. Dartmouth Academy looks forward to sharing updates as the project develops and celebrating the connections built through the power of reading. Miss McKay from Dartmouth Academy, said: “Oksana, our partner teacher in Ukraine, was an inspiration. She loved our approach to reading and shared some of their practices, which we’re excited to explore with our pupils. This partnership is a fantastic opportunity for our children to expand their horizons, build confidence, and enjoy reading while learning about a different culture.” Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: “We are delighted that Dartmouth Academy is taking part in this exciting UK–Ukraine partnership. Projects like this open up the world to our pupils and it’s wonderful to see our schools creating meaningful international connections while inspiring children to enjoy reading.”
Soaring to New Heights: Drone Coding Takes Off at Dartmouth Academy
Pupils at Dartmouth Academy have taken learning to new heights, quite literally, through an exciting series of STEM workshops that brought coding and engineering to life.
This term, primary pupils at the school participated in a hands-on drone coding workshop, delivered by Hyett Education and funded through a dedicated STEM (science, technology, maths and engineering) grant. The sessions saw pupils design, build, and programme their own drones before watching their creations take flight across the school grounds.
Working in teams, pupils transformed lines of code into real-world motion, combining creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration in a truly inspiring way. The workshops sparked enthusiasm across the school, with many pupils expressing a newfound passion for coding and curiosity about future careers in technology and engineering.
Dartmouth Academy continues to champion innovative learning experiences that prepare pupils for the future. The drone coding workshops are just one example of how the school is integrating cutting edge technology into the classroom.
Jen Tierney, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
“This was such an exciting opportunity for our pupils. It’s not every day you get to see your code take flight! The workshops have opened up a world of possibilities and shown our pupils how STEM learning can be both fun and empowering.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said:
“At Education South West, we’re passionate about providing opportunities that spark curiosity. The drone coding workshops at Dartmouth Academy are a brilliant example of how hands-on learning can inspire the next generation of engineers, coders, and innovators. It’s fantastic to see pupils so engaged, confident, and excited about learning.”
Soaring to New Heights: Drone Coding Takes Off at Dartmouth Academy Pupils at Dartmouth Academy have taken learning to new heights, quite literally, through an exciting series of STEM workshops that brought coding and engineering to life. This term, primary pupils at the school participated in a hands-on drone coding workshop, delivered by Hyett Education and funded through a dedicated STEM (science, technology, maths and engineering) grant. The sessions saw pupils design, build, and programme their own drones before watching their creations take flight across the school grounds. Working in teams, pupils transformed lines of code into real-world motion, combining creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration in a truly inspiring way. The workshops sparked enthusiasm across the school, with many pupils expressing a newfound passion for coding and curiosity about future careers in technology and engineering. Dartmouth Academy continues to champion innovative learning experiences that prepare pupils for the future. The drone coding workshops are just one example of how the school is integrating cutting edge technology into the classroom. Jen Tierney, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “This was such an exciting opportunity for our pupils. It’s not every day you get to see your code take flight! The workshops have opened up a world of possibilities and shown our pupils how STEM learning can be both fun and empowering.” Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: “At Education South West, we’re passionate about providing opportunities that spark curiosity. The drone coding workshops at Dartmouth Academy are a brilliant example of how hands-on learning can inspire the next generation of engineers, coders, and innovators. It’s fantastic to see pupils so engaged, confident, and excited about learning.”
Dartmouth Academy Welcomes Round-the-World Sailor Conrad Humphreys
Pupils at Dartmouth Academy were treated to an inspiring visit from renowned sailor and adventurer Conrad Humphreys this month.
The school’s primary pupils, who are currently reading a book about a sailing adventure, were thrilled to see Conrad’s boat, ‘Bounty’, in person. They were amazed to learn how Conrad and his crew recreated the extraordinary 4000 mile journey across the South Pacific taken by Captain Bligh in 1789, a story that captured their imaginations and brought their reading to life.
Meanwhile, secondary pupils attended a special assembly led by Conrad, where he spoke passionately about the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing adventure, even when faced with challenges or doubt. His talk encouraged students to be brave in pursuing their goals.
Students asked brilliant questions throughout the sessions. Dartmouth Academy is extremely grateful to Conrad for taking the time to visit and share his story, reminding everyone that great things happen when you dare to go beyond the horizon.
Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
“It was a real privilege to welcome Conrad to Dartmouth Academy. His story captivated our pupils from start to finish and brought their recent learning vividly to life. He showed our young people that courage, curiosity and perseverance can take you further than you ever imagined.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said:
“At Education South West, we want our young people to see that learning goes far beyond the classroom. Conrad’s visit perfectly demonstrated how adventure, resilience and ambition can shape not just great explorers, but confident, capable individuals ready to take on the world.”
Dartmouth Academy Welcomes Round-the-World Sailor Conrad Humphreys Pupils at Dartmouth Academy were treated to an inspiring visit from renowned sailor and adventurer Conrad Humphreys this month. The school’s primary pupils, who are currently reading a book about a sailing adventure, were thrilled to see Conrad’s boat, ‘Bounty’, in person. They were amazed to learn how Conrad and his crew recreated the extraordinary 4000 mile journey across the South Pacific taken by Captain Bligh in 1789, a story that captured their imaginations and brought their reading to life. Meanwhile, secondary pupils attended a special assembly led by Conrad, where he spoke passionately about the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing adventure, even when faced with challenges or doubt. His talk encouraged students to be brave in pursuing their goals. Students asked brilliant questions throughout the sessions. Dartmouth Academy is extremely grateful to Conrad for taking the time to visit and share his story, reminding everyone that great things happen when you dare to go beyond the horizon. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “It was a real privilege to welcome Conrad to Dartmouth Academy. His story captivated our pupils from start to finish and brought their recent learning vividly to life. He showed our young people that courage, curiosity and perseverance can take you further than you ever imagined.” Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: “At Education South West, we want our young people to see that learning goes far beyond the classroom. Conrad’s visit perfectly demonstrated how adventure, resilience and ambition can shape not just great explorers, but confident, capable individuals ready to take on the world.”
Dartmouth Academy Pupils Dive into Adventure with Local Author Erin Allgrove
Pupils from Dartmouth Academy were lucky to attend a special book reading of Bosun Bob and the Cat with No Name, the brand-new story by local author Erin Allgrove this term.
The children were captivated by the adventures of Bosun Bob and inspired by Erin’s lively storytelling. Following the reading, they had the chance to unleash their own creativity by inventing unique animal characters, each with its own special traits and personalities. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate both reading and imagination, and the children were excited to share their creations with one another.
In her newest book Bob and his feline friend have escaped from a shipwreck and are off on a nautical treasure hunt. They meet many friendly animals along the way who guide them to an oceanic volcano where the treasure is hidden and guarded by a mysterious creature.
Erin wrote her first book Bosun Bob the Salty Old Sea Dog whilst living onboard her yacht Rocket, sailing from Exmouth to Croatia with her family and dog Bob. Her love of sailing and books was inspired by her dad, also called Bob who shared his passion for boats and reading with Erin.
Dartmouth Academy’s aspirational curriculum and ethos of empathy and understanding is the drive for every child to be their best self in their learning and all they do at school and beyond.
Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
"It was a real pleasure to welcome Erin Allgrove to Dartmouth Academy and watch our pupils completely captivated by her storytelling.
“Events like this allow children to engage with literature in a hands-on, exciting way, sparking their creativity and imagination. Seeing them invent their own characters and share them with their peers is a wonderful reminder of how inspiring reading can be when combined with interactive learning."
Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said:
"We are thrilled that Dartmouth Academy continues to provide opportunities for pupils to experience the magic of books and storytelling firsthand. Meeting a local author and learning about the journey behind her work not only brings reading to life but also encourages children to think creatively and dream big.
“It’s these kinds of experiences that help our young people develop empathy, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning."
Dartmouth Academy Pupils Dive into Adventure with Local Author Erin Allgrove Pupils from Dartmouth Academy were lucky to attend a special book reading of Bosun Bob and the Cat with No Name, the brand-new story by local author Erin Allgrove this term. The children were captivated by the adventures of Bosun Bob and inspired by Erin’s lively storytelling. Following the reading, they had the chance to unleash their own creativity by inventing unique animal characters, each with its own special traits and personalities. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate both reading and imagination, and the children were excited to share their creations with one another. In her newest book Bob and his feline friend have escaped from a shipwreck and are off on a nautical treasure hunt. They meet many friendly animals along the way who guide them to an oceanic volcano where the treasure is hidden and guarded by a mysterious creature. Erin wrote her first book Bosun Bob the Salty Old Sea Dog whilst living onboard her yacht Rocket, sailing from Exmouth to Croatia with her family and dog Bob. Her love of sailing and books was inspired by her dad, also called Bob who shared his passion for boats and reading with Erin. Dartmouth Academy’s aspirational curriculum and ethos of empathy and understanding is the drive for every child to be their best self in their learning and all they do at school and beyond. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: "It was a real pleasure to welcome Erin Allgrove to Dartmouth Academy and watch our pupils completely captivated by her storytelling. “Events like this allow children to engage with literature in a hands-on, exciting way, sparking their creativity and imagination. Seeing them invent their own characters and share them with their peers is a wonderful reminder of how inspiring reading can be when combined with interactive learning." Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: "We are thrilled that Dartmouth Academy continues to provide opportunities for pupils to experience the magic of books and storytelling firsthand. Meeting a local author and learning about the journey behind her work not only brings reading to life but also encourages children to think creatively and dream big. “It’s these kinds of experiences that help our young people develop empathy, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning."