Featured pic Minerva Primary Academy

From Munchkins to Harry Potter, Cruella de Vil to the Wizard of Oz, staff, students, and pupils across our trust donned a variety of fancy dress costumers as they wholeheartedly embraced World Book Day with creativity and enthusiasm.

A variety of engaging activities took place throughout the day, celebrating the magic of books and storytelling.

At Herons’ Moor Academy, an exciting reading initiative was introduced where, whenever the bell rang, children and adults alike had to stop what they were doing and read a book for 10 minutes – ensuring reading remained at the heart of the day.

Herons’ Moor Academy

At Monkton Wood Academy, students participated in engaging tutor-time activities, while staff took part in a thrilling treasure hunt with prizes for the winners. Pupils also had the opportunity to visit the library during break and lunchtime to immerse themselves in additional World Book Day celebrations.

Monkton Wood Academy

Haywood Village Academy welcomed the Flibbertigibbet Theatre Company, which helped students rework classic fairytales through creative writing. The excitement continued with a visit from Mister Storyfella, who captivated students with global traditional tales.

A unique ‘Forgetful Readers’ challenge encouraged children to guess which teacher had been reading a particular book based on photo clues.

The day also featured a lively poetry slam and a World Book Day costume parade, where teachers and pupils dressed up as their favourite literary characters.

Haywood Village Academy

At Frome Vale Academy, pupils engaged in peer reading activities, designed to help foster a love for books and shared storytelling experiences.

Frome Vale Academy

At Redstart Primary School, children enjoyed a great day full of reading, talking about their favourite characters and enjoying listening to a story in comfy clothes.

Performers then took to the stage for a unique performance, as pupils all had fun watching the Matilda story performed by their teachers.

Redstart Primary School

Hanham Woods Academy was privileged to host author and former librarian Lis Jardine, who spoke to Year 7 students about her journey as a writer and the importance of storytelling in literature.

Hanham Woods Academy

A spokesperson for the trust said: “World Book Day is a fantastic opportunity to inspire a love of reading among students and staff.

“The enthusiasm and creativity shown across our schools have been truly remarkable.

“By engaging in these activities, we are fostering a culture where books and storytelling continue to be a fundamental part of learning and personal growth.”

The celebrations across the trust highlight the power of books in bringing people together and igniting imaginations. We look forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.

A new partnership between the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) and Bristol Bears Rugby brought excitement and inspiration to primary school pupils as six Bears players visited CLF academies to celebrate World Book Day.

The visits saw Tom Gwilliam and Kofi Cripps engaging with pupils at Evergreen Primary Academy and Snowdon Village, while Paddy Pearce and Jimmy Halliwell spent time at Summerhill Academy and Minerva Academy. Meanwhile, Harry Rowson and Sam Worsley visited Frome Vale Academy and Begbrook Academy.

The players took part in a range of literacy-focused activities, including one-on-one reading sessions where pupils had the opportunity to read to the players, group story time where players read aloud to groups, and interactive Q&A sessions.

The event concluded with a special autograph signing, leaving pupils with lasting memories of their experience.

                                                     Bristol Bear player at Snowdon Village

Andrew Bell, Partnership Manager for the CLF, said: “It was great to see this idea come to life today.

“Being able to have players visit six schools, encouraging learners from across the trust to read out loud and discuss their books this morning has been a great experience for both our children and the players. A big thank you to the Bristol Bears players.”

This collaboration helped to highlight the importance of reading and aims to foster a love for literacy among young learners.

Through this initiative, CLF and Bristol Bears Rugby continue to inspire students both academically and athletically, encouraging them to dream big and achieve their goals.

Featured Image: Bristol Bears players at Evergreen Primary Academy

A group of 50 excited Year 10 students and staff from Tewkesbury Academy embarked on an eagerly-anticipated half-term ski trip to Oberlungau, Austria.

Despite the early start and chilly winter morning, spirits were high as the group set off for a week of adventure on the slopes.

Throughout the week, students honed their skiing skills, making remarkable progress across a variety of slopes.

The trip provided not only an incredible opportunity to develop their skiing abilities but also the chance to create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning Austrian scenery.

A huge thank you goes to trip coordinator Mr James, whose months of meticulous planning ensured the success of the trip. He was supported by dedicated Tewkesbury Academy staff members Ms Pugh, Miss Pawson, Miss Corbett, Mr Phillips, and Mr Spencer, who all played a vital role in making the experience so special.

A spokesperson for the academy said: “Students had an incredible time, learning new skills, embracing new challenges, and making lifelong memories.

“It was fantastic to see their enthusiasm and progress on the slopes.

“The trip was a resounding success, leaving students with a new-found love for skiing and a collection of cherished memories to look back on for many years to come.”

Seventy-two students and staff from Hanham Woods Academy embarked on an unforgettable skiing adventure during the half-term break.

Departing from Bristol, the group travelled approximately 1,600 kilometres across six countries in a 29-hour journey to the stunning resort of Bormio, Italy.

Despite the long trip, the students were full of excitement and eager to hit the slopes. Over the course of the week, they received expert ski tuition, improving their skills while enjoying breathtaking alpine scenery.

The trip provided a fantastic opportunity for students to challenge themselves, build confidence, and create lasting memories with their peers.

A spokesperson said: “It was a long journey, but the excitement never faded.

“Our students and staff were eager to hit the slopes and make the most of this incredible experience.

“For many, this is their first time skiing, and Bormio provided the perfect setting to learn, challenge themselves, and create unforgettable memories.”

The academy is incredibly proud of the students for their enthusiasm and determination throughout the week and extends its thanks to the staff and instructors who made this experience possible.

Monkton Wood Academy has congratulated former student Richard Capstick, who left Heathfield School (the former name of Monkton Wood) in 2016, on his continued success in professional rugby.

Richard has been a key player for Exeter Chiefs and has now achieved another milestone in his career – his recent selection to play for England A.

He was part of the England A team that secured an impressive 28-12 victory against Ireland A.

A spokesperson said: “We are incredibly proud of Richard’s achievements.

“His dedication and hard work have been evident since his school days, and it’s fantastic to see him continue to excel at the highest levels of rugby.

“We wish him all the best in his future performances with England A and Exeter Chiefs.”

Richard’s journey from Heathfield to professional rugby serves as an inspiration to current students.

His selection for England A is a testament to his commitment and talent, and school leaders look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.

Year 5 pupils from Evergreen Primary Academy were excited to visit Junction 3 Library for a special opportunity to meet a professional ballet dancer.

During the visit, pupils took part in an interactive ballet workshop where they learned fundamental ballet moves and positions.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where pupils asked insightful questions about the dancer’s career, training, and life as a professional performer.

A spokesperson for the school said: “This was a fantastic experience for our pupils, giving them a unique insight into the world of ballet.

“The workshop not only introduced them to the art form but also inspired them to see the dedication and passion behind a professional dancer’s career.”