The annual Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) festival of sport was once again a resounding success, held this year at the University of the West of England’s (UWE) state-of-the-art sports centre.

This festival of sport brought together pupils from across both CLF primary and secondary academies for a day dedicated to physical activity, fun, and trying something new.

With no winners or losers, the festival’s core mission is to inspire young people to stay active and develop a lifelong love of sport and movement.

The event focuses on showing how sport and physical activity can help young people access further education, particularly those who are disadvantaged.

Primary pupils had the opportunity to take part in a variety of sports including netball, pickleball, ultimate frisbee, and football, encouraging them to try activities they may never have experienced before.

Meanwhile, secondary students participated in an exciting mix of activities such as climbing, pilates, hula hooping, trim trail challenges, table tennis, and trampolining, all designed to promote fitness in fun and engaging ways.

Participating primary academies included:

• Kings Oak Academy
• Uphill Village Academy
• Wicklea Academy
• Summerhill Academy
• Minerva Primary Academy
• Begbrook Primary Academy
• Herons’ Moor Academy

Secondary academies represented were:

• Kings Oak Academy
• Hans Price Academy
• John Cabot Academy
• Bristol Metropolitan Academy
• Winterstoke Hundred Academy
• Broadoak Academy
• Bristol Brunel Academy
• Monkton Wood Academy

James Mooney, Senior Curriculum Leader for Physical Education, School Sport and Physical Activity at CLF and lead organiser of the event, said: “The Festival of Sport is all about inclusivity, discovery, and joy through movement.

“It’s an opportunity for our students to step outside their comfort zones and experience the wide world of sport in a supportive environment.

“It’s been amazing to see so much enthusiasm and energy from everyone involved.”

The CLF Festival of Sport continues to grow each year, highlighting the federation’s commitment to all-inclusive education and promoting physical well-being as a key pillar of student development.”

The Secondary Science Curriculum Curation Team from the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) recently met with representatives from the Institute of Physics (IOP) to discuss curriculum development, recruitment, and teacher retention across the Trust.

Judith Hillier, Vice-President of the IOP, was joined by Allison Vickers and Hari Rentala as they engaged with the CLF science team to better understand the lived experiences of science teachers and students across CLF academies.

The IOP team was particularly interested in how the body’s national recommendations align with the CLF’s vision for science education.

The discussions focused on recruitment strategies, professional development, and the influence of curriculum design on teaching and learning.

These insights will support the IOP in advocating more effectively for physics education on a national scale.

Louisa Aldridge, Senior Network Leader for Science at CLF, said: “This is part of an ongoing relationship with the Institute of Physics, which has enabled valuable opportunities for professional development and teacher mentoring.”

This collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to strengthening science education and supporting teachers across the UK.

Pupils from Snowdon Village Academy experienced an unforgettable day out at the ever-popular seaside resort of Weston-super-Mare.

The trip was filled with laughter, adventure, and classic seaside fun, leaving pupils with memories they’ll treasure for years to come.

Pupils had an exciting donkey ride along the golden sands of Weston beach, a timeless seaside tradition that had pupils beaming with joy.

Following this, the group made their way to the resort’s top attraction — the iconic Grand Pier, a celebrated indoor theme park and entertainment hotspot.

Once inside the Grand Pier, the pupils explored a variety of thrilling activities. A highlight for many was a lively game of mini golf, where friendly competition and lots of fun were par for the course.

Of course, no trip to the beach would be complete without building sandcastles — and the pupils didn’t disappoint, showing off their creativity with some impressive sandy creations.

The day trip was not only a break from the classroom but also a chance for pupils to bond, explore, and enjoy the best of what Weston-super-Mare has to offer.

A spokesperson said: “It was such a joy to see our pupils so engaged and excited throughout the day, they had a wonderful time, a day they won’t forget in a hurry.”

‘Robust’ safeguarding measures and ‘knowledgeable and well-trained staff’ are helping students form ‘positive relationships’ at rapidly-improving Monkton Wood Academy, according to Ofsted.

Inspectors from the education watchdog visited the Taunton academy in May to scrutinise students’ behaviour and assess the school’s safeguarding practices.

Though the school is not due to have its next full inspection for at least another year, he Ofsted team ruled that Monkton Wood has shown a big improvement in these areas since its previous inspection, noting that suspensions and exclusions for poor behaviour have reduced and student attendance has increased.

In his judgement letter, Lead inspector Matthew Haynes said: “Leaders and those responsible for governance have taken effective action to improve behaviour and secure consistently positive attitudes to learning. Arrangements for safeguarding are effective.”

On behaviour and attitudes within the school, he wrote: “Since the school opened as an academy in December 2023, leaders have rightly prioritised improving pupils’ behaviour. Staff and pupils are clear about expectations in lessons and at other times of the school day. Lessons are typically calm and there is little low-level disruption. Students in the sixth form act maturely and work together in productive, constructive ways

“The majority of pupils form positive relationships with each other. They socialise well together and develop strong friendships. Bullying is not tolerated and is dealt with when it occurs.

“Pupils and staff rightly recognise the improvements in behaviour at the school. The school’s use of suspensions and exclusions to tackle poor behaviour has reduced. Rewards for good behaviour and effort are increasingly valued by pupils. Pupils’ rates of attendance are rising overall because of the school’s effective actions.”

On safeguarding, he wrote: “Safeguarding processes are robust and well managed. The records that the school keeps are comprehensive. Knowledgeable and well-trained staff refer concerns appropriately and leaders follow these up rigorously. Pupils receive the care and support that they need.

“Leaders prioritise safeguarding and have established an open and vigilant culture. Staff have a strong understanding of the signs of potential risks, including those more specifically relevant to the school.”

Inspectors also acknowledged the additional support Monkton Wood’s leaders have received from the school’s parent trust the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) to drive up standards.

Mr Haynes continued: “The trust has helped to establish ambitious expectations for pupils’ behaviour and attendance, including developing the policies and processes to underpin these. Trust officers contribute important support for leadership in the school, provide training for staff and regularly monitor the school’s progress. This includes support in vital areas such as safeguarding.

“The trust has helped the school to stabilise staffing, recruiting new staff and leaders. The school benefits from accessing expertise in other schools in the trust.

“Trustees and members of the local academy council keep close oversight over both behaviour and safeguarding in the school. They have an accurate understanding of the school’s priorities and progress. They are realistic about what the school has achieved so far and what needs to improve further. This means the trust provides the right support and challenge for the school’s leaders.”

Ofsted’s judgement has been welcomed by leaders at Monkton Wood and the CLF, who say they will continue to work hard to ensure further school improvements follow.

Hannah Jones, Principal at Monkton Wood Academy, said:

“We are pleased that the inspection team has recognised the impact of the Monkton Wood team’s work on behaviour and attitudes at the school. I am incredibly proud of our students and of the staff who support them so well.”

Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:

“It’s great for the whole school community to be able to read that our school is making such strong progress since becoming part of the trust last year – I’m delighted for the team that they have received this recognition for all their hard work. Well done to all staff and students.“

Year Two pupils from Redstart Primary School enjoyed a wonderful day of sunshine, sea air, and discovery during a recent visit to Lyme Regis, West Dorset – a stunning part of England’s Jurassic Coast.

Pupils explored the famous shingle beach, soaking up the fresh seaside air while enjoying packed lunches with spectacular sea views.

The day was filled with excitement and learning as pupils delved into the story of Mary Anning, the pioneering 19th-century palaeontologist and fossil collector who once walked the same shoreline in search of ancient treasures.

The visit offered pupils a hands-on glimpse into Britain’s rich geological history and inspired a spirit of curiosity and adventure.

A school spokesperson said: “It was a magical day for our Year Two pupils – full of sunshine, laughter, and discovery.

“Walking in the footsteps of Mary Anning really brought the curriculum to life, and the children loved every minute of it.”

Tewkesbury Academy was delighted to welcome local businesses, education establishments, and valued friends of the academy to support our Year 10 students through a series of practice interviews this week.

As part of their career’s education, students had been preparing their CVs during lessons and received guidance on how to approach interviews and present themselves effectively. The event gave every student the opportunity to engage in a one-to-one interview with an experienced professional, who generously offered their time, insights, and recruitment advice.

Students rose to the occasion, presenting themselves with confidence and professionalism. The feedback from our visiting interviewers was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the students’ preparedness and attitude.

The interviewers, all experienced in recruitment and talent development, approached each session with kindness and encouragement, helping students build confidence and develop key communication and interpersonal skills.

Sarah Baird, Careers Lead at Tewkesbury Academy, said: “We are incredibly grateful to all the professionals who volunteered their time to help our students.

“These practice interviews are invaluable in helping young people prepare for the world of work, and we are so proud of how well our students represented themselves and the school.

“The support from our wider community makes a real difference.”

Tewkesbury Academy extends sincere thanks to all who took part and looks forward to building on this successful event in future careers initiatives.

Ageas Insurance Ltd

Alan Bartholomew

Anne Bartholomew

Babcock International

Barclays

Department for Work and Pensions

GCC Employment & Skills Hub

Geometric Manufacturing

Gloucestershire College

Hartpury College and University

Joedan Windows and Doors Ltd

Kier Construction

Lakes Bathrooms

NHS

Ontic

SGS College

Skanska

Sphere Solutions Ltd