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 allDartmouth 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."
Dartmouth Academy Pupils Return From Borneo Adventure
Students from Dartmouth Academy experienced the trip of a lifetime during an excursion to Borneo this summer. Over four extraordinary weeks, 22 pupils swapped the classroom for the luscious landscapes of Borneo, an experience that tested their independence, built friendships and transformed the way they see the world.
As well as throwing themselves into community and conservation projects, pupils trekked into jungle camps and even dived with turtles off Mamutik Island. “We saw four of the Borneo Big Five,” one student, Millie, recalled. “The only one we missed was the pygmy elephant, but we saw everything else; crocodiles, monkeys, hornbills and orangutans - it was incredible.”
But this was no sightseeing holiday. The journey was built on two years of hard work, as every pupil was challenged to raise the £5,000 needed for the expedition themselves. The school organised raffles, bingos and sponsored walks, but it was the students’ own initiative that made the difference. Millie baked cakes to sell in her mum’s salon. Another student, Alec, sold jewellery and delivered logs during winter, while others took on part-time jobs, saving up to reach their goal.
“It took about two years to raise the money,” explained Year 11 pupil, Seren. “But that’s what made it so rewarding. We weren’t just handed this opportunity - we built it ourselves.”
Once in Borneo, the pupils turned their energy to helping rural communities. They played football with local children, taught English and worked alongside villagers on projects to support everyday life.
Dartmouth Academy has set its sights on the next expedition: a month-long trip to Cambodia in July 2027. The fundraising wheels are already in motion, with more fetes, fayres, sponsored walks and bingo nights planned.
Pupils and staff at Dartmouth Academy want to thank the Dartmouth community for their ongoing support. For many students, none of this would have been possible without the generosity of local people.
Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
“This wasn’t just a school trip, it was a transformation. Our pupils showed resilience, ambition and pride, not only in Borneo but in the years of fundraising that got them there. We are so proud of the way they embraced every challenge, from trekking through jungles to teaching in local communities. This is education at its very best.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said:
“The Borneo expedition shows what’s possible when young people combine hard work with heart. These students proved that learning goes far beyond the classroom, and experiences like this truly change lives. We are excited to see Dartmouth Academy already planning for Cambodia in 2027, which promises to be another incredible opportunity for the next generation.”
Dartmouth Academy Pupils Return From Borneo Adventure Students from Dartmouth Academy experienced the trip of a lifetime during an excursion to Borneo this summer. Over four extraordinary weeks, 22 pupils swapped the classroom for the luscious landscapes of Borneo, an experience that tested their independence, built friendships and transformed the way they see the world. As well as throwing themselves into community and conservation projects, pupils trekked into jungle camps and even dived with turtles off Mamutik Island. “We saw four of the Borneo Big Five,” one student, Millie, recalled. “The only one we missed was the pygmy elephant, but we saw everything else; crocodiles, monkeys, hornbills and orangutans - it was incredible.” But this was no sightseeing holiday. The journey was built on two years of hard work, as every pupil was challenged to raise the £5,000 needed for the expedition themselves. The school organised raffles, bingos and sponsored walks, but it was the students’ own initiative that made the difference. Millie baked cakes to sell in her mum’s salon. Another student, Alec, sold jewellery and delivered logs during winter, while others took on part-time jobs, saving up to reach their goal. “It took about two years to raise the money,” explained Year 11 pupil, Seren. “But that’s what made it so rewarding. We weren’t just handed this opportunity - we built it ourselves.” Once in Borneo, the pupils turned their energy to helping rural communities. They played football with local children, taught English and worked alongside villagers on projects to support everyday life. Dartmouth Academy has set its sights on the next expedition: a month-long trip to Cambodia in July 2027. The fundraising wheels are already in motion, with more fetes, fayres, sponsored walks and bingo nights planned. Pupils and staff at Dartmouth Academy want to thank the Dartmouth community for their ongoing support. For many students, none of this would have been possible without the generosity of local people. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “This wasn’t just a school trip, it was a transformation. Our pupils showed resilience, ambition and pride, not only in Borneo but in the years of fundraising that got them there. We are so proud of the way they embraced every challenge, from trekking through jungles to teaching in local communities. This is education at its very best.” Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: “The Borneo expedition shows what’s possible when young people combine hard work with heart. These students proved that learning goes far beyond the classroom, and experiences like this truly change lives. We are excited to see Dartmouth Academy already planning for Cambodia in 2027, which promises to be another incredible opportunity for the next generation.”
Dartmouth Academy Marks Youth Mental Health Day
Students and staff at Dartmouth Academy have marked Youth Mental Health Day (19th September) this month.
Mental health concerns for young people have multiplied in recent times. Today, a fifth of 8 to 25-year-olds have a diagnosable mental health disorder. Youth Mental Health Day aims to provide hope and positivity by getting young people engaged in discussions and activities about how to improve their mental health. Stem4, the UK's leading digital mental health charity for young people, is the founder of Youth Mental Health Day, which started in 2020.
Dartmouth Academy know that without good mental health children aren’t able to thrive in education. The school is pleased to have a team of mental health professionals on hand who regularly visit and speak with the entire school community. They also hold assemblies on how to achieve good mental health and provide a comprehensive programme of support to aid staff wellbeing.
Paul Girardot, Principal, at Dartmouth Academy, said:
"Good mental health is the foundation on which learning and personal growth are built. At Dartmouth Academy, we are committed to creating an environment where every young person feels supported, listened to, and able to flourish. Youth Mental Health Day is an important reminder that taking care of our wellbeing is just as vital as academic achievement."
Matthew Shanks, CEO, at Education South West said:
"Across Education South West, we recognise that schools play a crucial role in promoting positive mental health. Dartmouth Academy’s approach demonstrates the importance of providing early support, reducing stigma, and giving both students and staff the tools they need to thrive. We are proud to stand alongside them in supporting Youth Mental Health Day."
Dartmouth Academy Marks Youth Mental Health Day Students and staff at Dartmouth Academy have marked Youth Mental Health Day (19th September) this month. Mental health concerns for young people have multiplied in recent times. Today, a fifth of 8 to 25-year-olds have a diagnosable mental health disorder. Youth Mental Health Day aims to provide hope and positivity by getting young people engaged in discussions and activities about how to improve their mental health. Stem4, the UK's leading digital mental health charity for young people, is the founder of Youth Mental Health Day, which started in 2020. Dartmouth Academy know that without good mental health children aren’t able to thrive in education. The school is pleased to have a team of mental health professionals on hand who regularly visit and speak with the entire school community. They also hold assemblies on how to achieve good mental health and provide a comprehensive programme of support to aid staff wellbeing. Paul Girardot, Principal, at Dartmouth Academy, said: "Good mental health is the foundation on which learning and personal growth are built. At Dartmouth Academy, we are committed to creating an environment where every young person feels supported, listened to, and able to flourish. Youth Mental Health Day is an important reminder that taking care of our wellbeing is just as vital as academic achievement." Matthew Shanks, CEO, at Education South West said: "Across Education South West, we recognise that schools play a crucial role in promoting positive mental health. Dartmouth Academy’s approach demonstrates the importance of providing early support, reducing stigma, and giving both students and staff the tools they need to thrive. We are proud to stand alongside them in supporting Youth Mental Health Day."
