All Year 11 and Year 12 students from Tewkesbury Academy had the incredible opportunity to attend the C2S Growth careers event at the iconic Cheltenham Racecourse.

This event brought together leading businesses, industry experts and educational partners to inspire and inform young people about the diverse career pathways available to them.

The day was packed with interactive stands, networking opportunities and motivational talks designed to help students explore future options and develop essential employability skills. From learning about apprenticeships and university routes to discovering emerging careers in technology, healthcare and engineering, our students gained valuable insights into the world of work.

Sarah Baird, Careers and Pathways Lead at Tewkesbury Academy, commented: “This event is a fantastic way for our students to connect with employers and understand the skills and qualities they need for success in the modern workplace”.

Circle to Success, a respected business network, hosted a range of local and national employers who shared their expertise and offered practical advice. Students left feeling inspired and better prepared to make informed decisions about their next steps.

Tewkesbury Academy is committed to providing meaningful career experiences and this visit reflects the school’s dedication to preparing students for life beyond education.

Year 3 pupils from Summerhill Academy had a wonderful time wandering through history at the world-famous Hampton Court Palace.

Hampton Court Palace, a 500-year-old royal residence on the River Thames, was originally built by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey in the 16th century before becoming one of King Henry VIII’s most celebrated homes.

Today, the palace is a major tourist attraction renowned for its magnificent state apartments, 60 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, its famous hedge maze, and the world-record-holding Great Vine.

During their visit, pupils explored the historic building and its impressive grounds, soaking in the opulent surroundings and imagining what life might have been like during the reign of the legendary Henry VIII.

From grand halls to intricate tapestries, pupils were immersed in stories of Tudor life and royal splendour.

What an incredible trip!

A spokesperson for Summerhill Academy said: “Our Year 3 pupils were absolutely captivated by the history and grandeur of Hampton Court Palace.

“Experiences like this bring learning to life and ignite children’s curiosity in a way that the classroom alone never can.

“We are thrilled to provide opportunities that broaden horizons and inspire a love of history.”

All pupils at Frome Vale Academy participated in a very exciting aspirations day designed to help them explore a wide range of jobs, careers and future pathways.

The event gave children the opportunity to learn firsthand from professionals across multiple sectors, broadening their understanding of the world of work.

Among the many visitors were a nurse, a product designer and an IT recruitment specialist, all of whom delivered engaging presentations and were on hand to answer pupils questions about their careers, training and day-to-day responsibilities.

A spokesperson said: “Aspirations day is a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to discover what is possible for their futures.

“Hearing directly from professionals helps them realise that their goals are achievable and that there are many exciting paths open to them.”

Redstart Primary Academy’s Nursery has received a generous financial boost from a major local superstore, thanks to the Tesco Stronger Starts community voting scheme. The Nursery was presented with a cheque for £1,330, following customers’ blue-token votes in support of the academy’s shortlisted project.

Tesco Stronger Starts provides funding to schools, clubs, and local groups, enabling them to make a real difference within their communities. Each time customers shop in Tesco stores, they are given a blue token to vote for one of three local good causes. The cause with the most votes receives the top grant.

The Nursery will use this funding to upgrade and enhance their home corner, providing pupils with an enriched learning environment and improved opportunities for imaginative play.

Rebecca Collins, Principal of Redstart Primary Academy, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Tesco and to everyone in our local community who voted for us.

“This funding will make a real difference to our children, helping us create a more inspiring and engaging space for their early learning and development.”

Year 10 and 11 music students from John Cabot Academy enjoyed an unforgettable evening of exquisite live music at the Bristol Beacon.

Twenty students, accompanied by two members of staff, had the privilege of watching the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra perform a captivating and varied programme. The concert opened with Sibelius’ ever popular and majestic Karelia Suite, setting an atmospheric tone for the evening.

This was followed by a selection of Sibelius’ songs one of classical music’s best-kept secrets performed with passion and Nordic intensity. Students were quick to recognise that the pieces were sung in Swedish, delivered by world-renowned soprano Helena Juntunen, whose expressive performance left a lasting impression.

After the interval, the orchestra presented Shostakovich’s final symphony, a work from the period of his darkest music and often regarded as one of the most profound and insightful post-war symphonies. The students were absorbed by the emotional depth and historical significance of the piece.

Reflecting on the experience, the group agreed it was a brilliant evening, and staff have already begun exploring the Bristol Beacon’s programme for their next concert trip.

Charlotte Grierson, Central Team Leader of Performing Arts, said: “It was inspiring to watch our students engage so deeply with a world-class live performance.

“Experiences like this broaden their musical understanding and ignite their passion for the subject.
“We can’t wait to bring them back for another exceptional concert.”

Monkton Wood Academy is celebrating today after its Key Stage 3 girls badminton teams delivered outstanding performances to claim the area championship title.

After a series of intense and competitive matches, the teams demonstrated exceptional teamwork, unity, skill, and dedication, securing their place at the top and earning the honour of representing the area in the upcoming county competition.

A spokesperson for Monkton Wood Academy said: “We are incredibly proud of our Key Stage 3 badminton teams. Their commitment, sportsmanship, and determination have been evident throughout the tournament.

“This achievement reflects not only their talent, but also their hard work and positive attitude.

“We are excited to see what they can accomplish at county level.”