Students from Broadoak Academy in Weston-super-Mare wowed audiences with their sensational production of Shrek The Musical Jr, staged over two unforgettable days.

The talented cast delivered four standout performances to enthusiastic sell-out crowds, earning widespread praise for their dedication and talent.

More than 300 local primary school children were treated to special matinee performances, offering young audiences a chance to enjoy the magical production firsthand.

Leading the stellar cast were Josh (Year 8) as Shrek, Amelia (Year 8) as Fiona, and Olivia (Year 7) as Donkey. With a dedicated cast and crew of over 30 students from Years 7-11, rehearsals had been ongoing since October, with participants generously giving up their free time to perfect the show.

The plot follows Shrek, an ogre who lives peacefully in a distant swamp until his home is invaded by a group of banished fairytale characters, all victims of the ruthless Lord Farquaad.

Determined to reclaim his swamp, Shrek embarks on a journey with his witty companion, Donkey. His quest leads him to rescue the spirited Princess Fiona, resulting in unexpected twists, heartfelt moments, and plenty of laughter along the way.

Naomi Aves, Head of Creative at Broadoak Academy, said: “What makes this year’s cast and crew so special and such a joy to work with is not just their talent, but the way they have continually supported and lifted each other up throughout the whole journey.

“There’s been so much laughter, teamwork, and passion poured into this show from all involved, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they achieved.

“This fantastic production has not only showcased the impressive talents of Broadoak Academy students but also created unforgettable memories for all who attended.”

John Cabot students and staff transported audiences to an enchanting land in a delightful stage adaptation of L Frank Baum’s beloved tale The Wizard Of Oz.

This timeless story follows young Dorothy Gale, played by Iris Hutton and Sophie Townsend (both Year 11), who is swept up by a tornado and lands in the fantasy world of Oz. Along her journey to find the Wizard, she meets an array of unforgettable characters, including the Scarecrow (Harry Ryan, Year 11), the Tin Man (Laura Gessner Machado, Year 9), and the Lion (Zara Albuquerque, Year 9). The talented cast also brought to life the Munchkins, Winkies, Witches, and farm folk, making for a vibrant and engaging performance.

The production, performed over three nights to packed audiences and featuring the iconic music from the classic MGM film, also included a special matinee show for local primary school pupils.

With a cast and crew of over 70 students spanning Years 7 to 13, the production captured the essence of this heartfelt story – one of overcoming challenges, forging friendships, and discovering the true meaning of home.

Audiences were treated to both humorous and emotional moments that made the performance truly unforgettable.

A spectacular seven-piece live band, composed of students from Years 8 to 11, provided the soundtrack to this dazzling production, adding to the magic of the performance.

Charlotte Grierson, Curriculum Leader for Performing Arts, said: “The Royal Shakespeare Company’s version of this classic story is a faithful adaptation of the film, offering brilliant opportunities for our students to showcase their incredible talent.

“Watching the story come to life over the past few months has been a joy, and the final performances were a fantastic realisation of this beloved classic.

“Having the privilege of a live band, as well as a slick backstage and technical team, really elevated the show to another level. I hope this experience is one that the students involved will cherish for years to come.”

With its combination of stunning performances, captivating storytelling, and a dedicated production team, John Cabot’s The Wizard Of Oz proved to be a truly magical experience for all who attended.

Outstanding physical education practice within the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) has once again been celebrated on a national stage, earning the trust recognition in two categories at the prestigious Youth Sport Trust Awards.

Summerhill Academy, led by PE lead and teacher Sally Goodridge, and James Mooney, the trust’s Senior Curriculum Leader for Physical Education, School Sport, and Physical Activity, were both shortlisted among the awards finalists, marking a continued commitment to excellence in pupil/student well-being and physical education.

This recognition comes just a year after CLF won the Youth Sport Trust’s Outstanding Multi Academy Trust Practice Award for its inclusive trust-wide physical education provision, designed to improve the life experiences of all students.

This year, Summerhill Academy was shortlisted for its Outstanding Primary Practice Award, recognising its excellence in using PE, sport, and play to prioritise the health and happiness of its pupils, thereby building a strong foundation for learning.

Key initiatives that contributed to this success include:

• Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds Programme
• Active Uniform Policy
• Daily Movement Sessions
• Healthy Eating Initiatives
• Mental Health Support

James has been a leading force in transforming physical education practice, both locally within his multi-academy trust, as well as regionally and nationally through his work with the Youth Sport Trust. An exceptional networker and connector, James is passionate about building relationships and creating opportunities that benefit young people.

In a remarkable achievement, Summerhill Academy won their category, securing the Outstanding Primary Practice Award. Meanwhile, James Mooney placed second in his category, a testament to his incredible influence and leadership within CLF and beyond.

Sally Goodridge said: “We are immensely proud of this recognition from the Youth Sports Trust. It is all due to great collaboration, teamwork, dedicated staff and wonderful children.”

James Mooney said: “I am humbled to be finalist for the Campbell Award, recognising my ability to use collaboration to galvanise people and empower them to make positive change for young people through the power of PE, sport, physical activity and play.

“Although I have been recognised, I want to show my appreciation for the people and networks that I work with to make a difference to young people’s lives – they are the real change makers.”

Year 3 pupils from Minerva Primary Academy embarked on an unforgettable journey through history with a visit to the magnificent Hampton Court Palace.

During their trip, pupils and staff explored the stunning palace, immersing themselves in its rich history and breathtaking architecture.

Pupils embraced the experience by pretending to be dukes, knights, princes, and princesses as they wandered through the grand halls and lavish gardens.

The visit provided a hands-on learning opportunity, bringing history to life in an engaging and interactive way.

The pupils were fascinated by the tales of Tudor royalty and the splendour of the historic surroundings.

A spokesperson from Minerva Primary Academy said: “Pupils had an incredible time at Hampton Court Palace.

“Seeing their excitement as they stepped into the past was truly wonderful.

“Experiences like this inspire a love for history and create lasting memories.”

Hanham Woods Academy is a school where ‘pupils feel safe and cared for’ and are ‘encouraged to dream big about their futures’, according to Ofsted inspectors.

A team from the education watchdog spent two days assessing the school, during which time they met leaders from the school and its trust, spoke with parents and pupils, and carried out a range of inspection activities.

Although the visit was an ungraded inspection, Ofsted confirmed Hanham Woods has ‘taken effective action’ to maintain the standards which earned the school a ‘Good’ rating previously.

Inspectors also heaped praise upon the school’s ‘ambitious curriculum’, ‘calm and orderly’ atmosphere and ‘high quality support’ staff give to pupils.

In her report, lead inspector Sarah Favager-Dalton said: “Hanham Woods Academy has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection.

“The school has high aspirations of what all pupils can achieve. Pupils are encouraged to ‘dream big’ about their futures.

“The school makes sure that pupils have the information they need to make informed decision about their next steps. Pupils move on to further education or employment that matches their ambitions.”

On teaching and curriculum, the report said: “Staff use their strong subject knowledge to explain new content clearly. The work they give to pupils is well matched to the ambitious curriculum that the school has designed.

“There is a strong focus on literacy across all areas of the curriculum. Those who have fallen behind with reading are identified and get support to catch up.”

On student behaviour, it said: “Pupils understand how the school expects them to behave. If pupils do not meet the school’s expectations, staff take prompt action. As a result, the school is calm and orderly.”

On inclusion, the report said: “Pupils learn about the importance of tolerance and respect for those from different backgrounds to them. For instance, pupils enjoyed a recent event that celebrated the diversity of cultures that pupils and staff come from.”

On attendance, it said: “Attendance is a high priority for the school. Staff have a good understanding of the reasons why pupils are absent. Key staff have built positive relationships with families to support pupils to attend more often. Pupils’ attendance has improved.”

And on leadership and governance, Ofsted added: “Leaders have an accurate understanding of the school’s strengths and priorities for development. For instance, they have made sure they have the right staff in place to improve pupils’ attendance. Those responsible for governance have the expertise they need to support and challenge the school.”

Inspectors also praised the effectiveness of Hanham Woods’ safeguarding and SEND provision, and its ‘comprehensive approach to preparing pupils for life beyond school’.

Ofsted’s verdict has been welcomed by leaders within both the school, and its parent trust the Cabot Learning Federation.

Steve O’Callaghan, Principal at Hanham Woods Academy, said:

“This is really proud moment for me as Principal, to see the hard work of colleagues, students and the wider community recognised as we continue our improvement journey.

“We welcome the outcome of the inspection and are actively pursuing further improvement to give children the best chance of success.”

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

“Our school has maintained the strong Ofsted outcome achieved in the last inspection in 2019, which is as admirable feat during a time of considerable change for us all.

“I am delighted that the Hanham community can continue to have a school it can be proud of. Well done to the students and the team of professionals working at the school.”

Pupils at Evergreen Primary Academy are thrilled to explore their brand-new playground area, made possible by the generous support of Wooden Spoon through its grant program.

Wooden Spoon, a grant-making charity, funds projects across the UK and Ireland that benefit children with disabilities, those facing disadvantage, or those who are disenfranchised.

Their support has enabled the academy to create a dynamic outdoor space that fosters physical literacy, helping children develop motor skills and stay active.

Beyond physical play, the new area is also a fantastic hub for social interaction, where pupils can make new friends and enjoy playing together.

In addition, the academy has introduced cozy reading corners in different spots, making storytime even more magical.

A spokesperson for Evergreen Primary Academy said: “Thank you, Wooden Spoon, for helping us create a space where children can learn, grow, and have fun.”