Dartmouth Academy Pupils Delight at Devon Cookery Competition

Pupils from Dartmouth Academy have been praised for their professionalism and teamwork after taking part in the Devon Local Final of the Springboard Cookery Competition this term.

The event, organised by The Springboard Charity, brought together young culinary talent from across the region. Dartmouth Academy competitors impressed organisers with their calm approach, efficiency in the kitchen and high standard of cookery throughout the challenge.

Rebecca Slade, Programme Delivery Manager at Springboard, shared her appreciation following the event. She said the students were a real credit to the school and noted how professionally they conducted themselves during the competition.

Mikey Passmore, who accompanied the students, expressed his pride in their performance and confirmed that the school will be presenting a personalised certificate to participants. 

The Springboard Charity works across the UK to support young people into careers in hospitality, leisure and tourism, offering events and opportunities designed to build confidence and employability skills.

Mikey Passmore, Head of Science at Dartmouth Academy, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the pupils for the way they represented Dartmouth Academy. Their hard work, confidence and maturity stood out on the day. We are grateful to Springboard for hosting such an inspiring event and we look forward to entering again next year.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said:

“Seeing our pupils thrive in such a high pressure environment is inspiring. Opportunities like this help them grow in confidence and discover new passions. We are proud of their achievements and delighted to see Dartmouth Academy represented so strongly in this regional competition.”

 

 

 

 

Dartmouth Academy Pupils Delight at Devon Cookery Competition Pupils from Dartmouth Academy have been praised for their professionalism and teamwork after taking part in the Devon Local Final of the Springboard Cookery Competition this term. The event, organised by The Springboard Charity, brought together young culinary talent from across the region. Dartmouth Academy competitors impressed organisers with their calm approach, efficiency in the kitchen and high standard of cookery throughout the challenge. Rebecca Slade, Programme Delivery Manager at Springboard, shared her appreciation following the event. She said the students were a real credit to the school and noted how professionally they conducted themselves during the competition. Mikey Passmore, who accompanied the students, expressed his pride in their performance and confirmed that the school will be presenting a personalised certificate to participants.  The Springboard Charity works across the UK to support young people into careers in hospitality, leisure and tourism, offering events and opportunities designed to build confidence and employability skills. Mikey Passmore, Head of Science at Dartmouth Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of the pupils for the way they represented Dartmouth Academy. Their hard work, confidence and maturity stood out on the day. We are grateful to Springboard for hosting such an inspiring event and we look forward to entering again next year.” Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said: “Seeing our pupils thrive in such a high pressure environment is inspiring. Opportunities like this help them grow in confidence and discover new passions. We are proud of their achievements and delighted to see Dartmouth Academy represented so strongly in this regional competition.”        

RAF Inspires Pupils During Special Assembly at Dartmouth Academy

 

Pupils from Dartmouth Academy enjoyed an inspiring visit from the Royal Air Force (RAF) this term during a special whole school assembly focused on leadership, teamwork and future career pathways.

Representatives from the RAF delivered an engaging presentation that explored the wide range of roles available within the organisation, from engineering and aviation to logistics, medicine and technical operations. They also shared real life stories from their own careers and spoke about the importance of resilience, problem solving and collaboration.

Staff said the visit offered pupils a valuable opportunity to learn about life in the armed forces and to ask questions directly to serving personnel. Many pupils commented on how much they enjoyed hearing first hand experiences and gaining insight into both the challenges and rewards of RAF careers.

The school plans to continue working with the RAF and other services to provide pupils with a rich range of career and enrichment experiences throughout the year.

Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:

“We are extremely grateful to the RAF for taking the time to come in and speak to our pupils. Their presentation was informative, motivating and packed with positive messages about aspiration and personal development. Experiences like this broaden our pupils’ horizons and help them think about the many exciting opportunities open to them after they leave school.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said:

“Visits like this play a vital role in opening young people’s eyes to the world beyond the classroom. The RAF team provided an engaging and informative session that encouraged pupils to think ambitiously about their futures. We are proud of how our pupils responded and grateful to the RAF for offering such a valuable and memorable experience.”

 

 

 

RAF Inspires Pupils During Special Assembly at Dartmouth Academy   Pupils from Dartmouth Academy enjoyed an inspiring visit from the Royal Air Force (RAF) this term during a special whole school assembly focused on leadership, teamwork and future career pathways. Representatives from the RAF delivered an engaging presentation that explored the wide range of roles available within the organisation, from engineering and aviation to logistics, medicine and technical operations. They also shared real life stories from their own careers and spoke about the importance of resilience, problem solving and collaboration. Staff said the visit offered pupils a valuable opportunity to learn about life in the armed forces and to ask questions directly to serving personnel. Many pupils commented on how much they enjoyed hearing first hand experiences and gaining insight into both the challenges and rewards of RAF careers. The school plans to continue working with the RAF and other services to provide pupils with a rich range of career and enrichment experiences throughout the year. Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “We are extremely grateful to the RAF for taking the time to come in and speak to our pupils. Their presentation was informative, motivating and packed with positive messages about aspiration and personal development. Experiences like this broaden our pupils’ horizons and help them think about the many exciting opportunities open to them after they leave school.” Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said: “Visits like this play a vital role in opening young people’s eyes to the world beyond the classroom. The RAF team provided an engaging and informative session that encouraged pupils to think ambitiously about their futures. We are proud of how our pupils responded and grateful to the RAF for offering such a valuable and memorable experience.”      

England Rugby Legend Martin Johnson Inspires Dartmouth Academy Pupils at Awards Evening

Dartmouth Academy recently hosted a special awards evening to celebrate the achievements of its pupils, recognising both academic success and the embodiment of the school’s core values: courage, compassion, and ambition. The event brought together pupils, families, and staff for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration.

Guests were welcomed with canapés and refreshments, accompanied by a musical performance from one of the school’s talented pupils. Alongside the presentation of GCSE certificates, awards were given to pupils nominated in each of the three values categories, with winners proudly receiving trophies. The evening also included speeches from last year’s Head Boy and Head Girl, reflecting on their experiences and offering encouragement to the next cohort.

The school was honoured to present Duke of Edinburgh certificates, handed out by a Commander from Britannia Royal Naval College, recognising pupils’ dedication and commitment. A highlight of the night was the keynote address delivered by England rugby legend Martin Johnson, whose message about resilience, teamwork, and striving for excellence resonated strongly with students and families alike.

Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:

"It was wonderful to celebrate the incredible achievements of our pupils. This evening recognised not just academic success, but also the values that define our school community. We are so proud of each student and the effort they put into everything they do."

Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said:

"Events like this highlight the exceptional talent and character of young people in our schools. It is inspiring to see students being recognised for their hard work, courage, and ambition, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to excel in the future."

England Rugby Legend Martin Johnson Inspires Dartmouth Academy Pupils at Awards Evening Dartmouth Academy recently hosted a special awards evening to celebrate the achievements of its pupils, recognising both academic success and the embodiment of the school’s core values: courage, compassion, and ambition. The event brought together pupils, families, and staff for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration. Guests were welcomed with canapés and refreshments, accompanied by a musical performance from one of the school’s talented pupils. Alongside the presentation of GCSE certificates, awards were given to pupils nominated in each of the three values categories, with winners proudly receiving trophies. The evening also included speeches from last year’s Head Boy and Head Girl, reflecting on their experiences and offering encouragement to the next cohort. The school was honoured to present Duke of Edinburgh certificates, handed out by a Commander from Britannia Royal Naval College, recognising pupils’ dedication and commitment. A highlight of the night was the keynote address delivered by England rugby legend Martin Johnson, whose message about resilience, teamwork, and striving for excellence resonated strongly with students and families alike. Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: "It was wonderful to celebrate the incredible achievements of our pupils. This evening recognised not just academic success, but also the values that define our school community. We are so proud of each student and the effort they put into everything they do." Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said: "Events like this highlight the exceptional talent and character of young people in our schools. It is inspiring to see students being recognised for their hard work, courage, and ambition, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to excel in the future."

Year 10 Pupils Enjoy Sleepover at Dartmouth Academy to Fund Cambodia Trip

Year 10 pupils at Dartmouth Academy had an exciting overnight stay at school this term as part of their fundraising efforts for an upcoming expedition to Cambodia in July 2027. 

The group spent the evening taking part in fun activities, including making their own pizzas, games, and social events, all while learning teamwork and leadership skills.

The sleepover is part of the school’s ongoing efforts to raise funds for international trips. Dartmouth Academy is no stranger to global adventures, with students having recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Borneo over the summer.

The school has more fundraising events planned, including fetes, fairs, sponsored walks, and bingo nights, all designed to support the Cambodia trip and ensure the pupils can have a memorable and transformative experience abroad.

Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:

“Our Year 10s had a fantastic time at the sleepover, enjoying both the fun and the sense of purpose behind it. Fundraising for such an incredible opportunity helps build not just excitement for the trip but also life skills in planning, collaboration, and community spirit.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:

“It’s fantastic to see our students so engaged in fundraising for an international experience. Trips like these broaden horizons, inspire curiosity, and develop skills that will stay with them for life. The enthusiasm and creativity shown at the sleepover is a real testament to Dartmouth Academy’s commitment to providing

transformative opportunities.”

 

 

Year 10 Pupils Enjoy Sleepover at Dartmouth Academy to Fund Cambodia Trip Year 10 pupils at Dartmouth Academy had an exciting overnight stay at school this term as part of their fundraising efforts for an upcoming expedition to Cambodia in July 2027.  The group spent the evening taking part in fun activities, including making their own pizzas, games, and social events, all while learning teamwork and leadership skills. The sleepover is part of the school’s ongoing efforts to raise funds for international trips. Dartmouth Academy is no stranger to global adventures, with students having recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Borneo over the summer. The school has more fundraising events planned, including fetes, fairs, sponsored walks, and bingo nights, all designed to support the Cambodia trip and ensure the pupils can have a memorable and transformative experience abroad. Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “Our Year 10s had a fantastic time at the sleepover, enjoying both the fun and the sense of purpose behind it. Fundraising for such an incredible opportunity helps build not just excitement for the trip but also life skills in planning, collaboration, and community spirit.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said: “It’s fantastic to see our students so engaged in fundraising for an international experience. Trips like these broaden horizons, inspire curiosity, and develop skills that will stay with them for life. The enthusiasm and creativity shown at the sleepover is a real testament to Dartmouth Academy’s commitment to providing transformative opportunities.”    

Dartmouth Art Pupils Exhibit to Support St Clement’s Church

 

Year 10 Art and Design pupils at Dartmouth Academy showcased their creativity at an art exhibition held in support of the concert at St Clement’s Church this term. 

The artworks on display were inspired by each pupil’s personal choice of music, allowing them to explore the relationship between sound and visual expression.

This term, Dartmouth pupils have been focusing on visualising text and using colour to convey emotion and narrative. Through their studies, they are learning how artists communicate feeling, atmosphere, and storytelling through abstract forms, mark-making, and deliberate colour choices.

As part of their research, pupils examined the work of renowned artists Anthony Frost and Wassily Kandinsky, both known for using colour and abstraction to convey energy, mood, and emotion. These examples helped pupils understand how visual art can express ideas and feelings that are difficult to capture through imagery alone.

Pupils also deconstructed the lyrics of songs by Louis Dunford, including The Boy Who Could Fly and Ballad of Benjamin. Ballad of Benjamin, which tells the real-life story of Ben Kinsella, sparked thoughtful and sensitive discussions in class about boys’ mental health, depression, and knife crime. These conversations have encouraged empathy, reflection, and emotional literacy among pupils.

As part of this exciting project, the school hopes to invite Louis Dunford to visit and speak to pupils about his creative process and the themes within his work. 

Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:

"This project demonstrates the power of community partnerships and creative learning. By connecting music, art, and important social issues, our pupils not only develop their artistic skills but also build empathy and awareness about challenges faced by young people today."

Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said:

"We are proud to see our students using art to express complex emotions and engage with real-world stories. Projects like this encourage reflection, discussion, and emotional growth, showing how education can extend beyond the classroom while encouraging creativity and social responsibility."

Dartmouth Art Pupils Exhibit to Support St Clement’s Church   Year 10 Art and Design pupils at Dartmouth Academy showcased their creativity at an art exhibition held in support of the concert at St Clement’s Church this term.  The artworks on display were inspired by each pupil’s personal choice of music, allowing them to explore the relationship between sound and visual expression. This term, Dartmouth pupils have been focusing on visualising text and using colour to convey emotion and narrative. Through their studies, they are learning how artists communicate feeling, atmosphere, and storytelling through abstract forms, mark-making, and deliberate colour choices. As part of their research, pupils examined the work of renowned artists Anthony Frost and Wassily Kandinsky, both known for using colour and abstraction to convey energy, mood, and emotion. These examples helped pupils understand how visual art can express ideas and feelings that are difficult to capture through imagery alone. Pupils also deconstructed the lyrics of songs by Louis Dunford, including The Boy Who Could Fly and Ballad of Benjamin. Ballad of Benjamin, which tells the real-life story of Ben Kinsella, sparked thoughtful and sensitive discussions in class about boys’ mental health, depression, and knife crime. These conversations have encouraged empathy, reflection, and emotional literacy among pupils. As part of this exciting project, the school hopes to invite Louis Dunford to visit and speak to pupils about his creative process and the themes within his work.  Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: "This project demonstrates the power of community partnerships and creative learning. By connecting music, art, and important social issues, our pupils not only develop their artistic skills but also build empathy and awareness about challenges faced by young people today." Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West said: "We are proud to see our students using art to express complex emotions and engage with real-world stories. Projects like this encourage reflection, discussion, and emotional growth, showing how education can extend beyond the classroom while encouraging creativity and social responsibility."