The power of the flashcards at TA
On Thursday morning, all students from year 7 up to year 10 filled the Sports Hall for a powerful deliberate practice session that focused on mastering the use of flashcards to revise.
At Torquay Academy, we don’t leave revision to chance. We teach three research-backed techniques proven to boost retention. A key focus was flashcards—students were shown the correct format, placing a Q or A in the top left corner and numbering each card in the top right. Crucially, they were reminded that simply making flashcards isn't enough; quizzing themselves is what makes knowledge stick.
We encourage parents, carers, and friends to support students by testing them with their flashcards. As part of their revision mastery homework, students should be creating 10 flashcards per week and showing their tutor every Monday.
To help keep students organised, each has been provided with a pocket to store their 70+ flashcards, removing a common barrier to success. The pocket has been stuck into the back of their revision mastery books.
A huge well done to all students for their engagement - the ability to remember and retrieve more knowledge really is the key to exam success. Mastering the use of flashcards has the potential to be life-changing for our amazing students - we are really excited to feel the impact over the forthcoming weeks.
Creativity in Motion: Music Technology In Action
This cycle in Music Technology has been one of the most exciting yet. Across all year groups, students have been pushing their creative and technical boundaries, producing innovative and high-quality work. From composing for media to planning live events, their dedication and enthusiasm have been truly inspiring.
Year 11: Soundtracking the Journey
Our Year 11 students have been taking on the challenge of designing their own event, using transport as a creative stimulus. This project has been an incredible opportunity for them to explore the music business while crafting transport-themed musical vignettes using cutting-edge technology. Mr Pasternakiewicz has been particularly pleased with their adaptability—tackling new concepts with confidence and applying their skills in creative ways. The class's willingness to embrace unfamiliar topics and translate them into engaging musical ideas has been fantastic to see.
Year 10: Beats, Performance, and Film
Year 10 has been diving into multiple aspects of music technology. They are currently rehearsing for an upcoming live performance, developing their DJ skills, and fine-tuning their compositions for media. With an Easter deadline fast approaching, Mr P has been so impressed by the sheer volume of their output—balancing multiple projects while maintaining a high level of quality. Their dedication and drive are setting them up for an incredible final showcase in April.
Year 9: Reimagining Soundtracks
One of the standout moments of this cycle has been the Year 9 class, who have been composing music for the media. Each student selected a one-minute trailer or advert and used sequencing techniques to reimagine its soundtrack. The attention to detail in their work has been nothing short of outstanding. Mr. Pasternakiewicz has been particularly impressed by their creativity and technical precision—proving that storytelling through music is alive and well in our classroom.
As we move forward, we can't wait to see how these projects evolve and what new ideas our students bring to the table. Keep an eye out for more exciting updates from our Music Technology classes.
Torquay Academy Rocks Devon Music Hub Battle of the Bands
Students from Torquay Academy Music Academy took to the stage at the Devon Music Hub Battle of the Bands at Uffculme School, going head-to-head with talented groups from five other Devon-based schools. Battling valiantly, our students delivered an electrifying performance that left a lasting impression on the audience and judges alike.
Performing Out of the Black by Royal Blood, the band unleashed a powerful wall of sound—especially impressive considering they were only a four-piece. The judges commended their tightness as a group, praising their ability to lock in musically and deliver a high-energy set. Their performance was made even more remarkable by drummer Arren Button, who stepped in at the last minute due to illness in the band, showing incredible adaptability and skill under pressure.
Despite being edged out by an original composition in the final results, the experience was nothing short of amazing. The band gained new fans, represented the school with pride, and showcased the immense talent thriving in the South West.
A huge well done to our outstanding performers:
Robin Pightling - Guitar, Erin Allen - Vocals, Callum Edwards - Bass, Arren Button - Drums.
You did Torquay Academy proud! We can't wait to see where your musical journey takes you next.
health and social care
On Thursday 13th February over 60 health and social care students from Key Stage 4 and 5 went to the Horizon Center at Torbay Hospital to see what career options there are for them in the Health and Social Care sector and the different routes into a career. It was amazing for the students to see the variety of options available to them and inspired them for the future. All students were impeccably behaved and engaged well with all the professionals who were explaining what they do in their job day to day.
sparx reader triumph
Well done to Catherine Ramesh Mani in year 8 who has read 586,000 words on Sparx Reader this year. This is a fantastic achievement and will hold her in great stead for the future!
TA Year 9 DofE Bronze students impress the local community
Earlier this month a number of our Year 9 students were commended by members of the local community for their Volunteering efforts. They were spotted litter picking in the Barton area and the photographs were taken showing their amazing efforts at Barton Cricket Club's pitch, and was posted on the Facebook page 'Spotted Torquay'. This post has really caught the attention of the local community, with many positive comments (included here on the blog) from members of the public, and over 1000 likes!
The boys have chosen to do litter picking in their local area as their activity for their DofE Bronze volunteering activity. As well as having a hugely positive impact on their local community, the boys have made it a more enjoyable activity as they are teaming up together to do it and are making progress towards achieving their DofE Bronze award. Well done to the following Year 9 students: James Beer, Riain Leal, Ivan Masilakovas, Sean Canham, Milan Ujj, Jonathan Siuchninski, and Jonathan Oleksy.
Gymnastics Success
Brogan Holmes-Inch in Year 8 competed in the South West gymnastics Festival over the weekend in Barnstaple in the Under 14 category. He won silver on floor and bronze on vault and won silver for all around. He competed for Devon with his team winning gold. Congratulations Brogan!
House News
The final of the annual Year 7 Countdown competition took place on Monday February 10th. Competitors from 7H and 7C had already defeated two other houses each to earn their place in the ultimate game. Countdown involves both literacy and numeracy challenges which the students attempt to solve in teams of four. The final challenge is an anagram of nine letters which needs to be deciphered. Although the teams were initially evenly matched, the Christie team: Grace Donnelly, Freddie Thatcher, Harry Monro and Zenna Venter got into a good lead and produced a very convincing win. All finalists received individual prizes and the victorious Christie team were able to take the House Cup and sweets for the whole tutor group back to 7C.
Cadet Blog: Progress and Determination at Wednesday’s Training
Another productive and engaging training session this Wednesday saw our cadets pushing themselves to develop vital skills across a range of disciplines. Their hard work and dedication are evident as they continue to grow in confidence, teamwork, and leadership.
First Aid: Building Life-Saving Skills
Cadets continued their first aid training, reinforcing their knowledge and practical application of life-saving techniques. From treating injuries to understanding emergency procedures, their commitment to learning these essential skills is commendable.
Two-Person Shelter: Fieldcraft in Action
Practical skills were put to the test as cadets worked in pairs to construct two-person shelters. Learning how to set up effective cover in different conditions is a key part of fieldcraft training, preparing them for future outdoor exercises and survival situations.
Communications and Information Systems (CIS): Radio Operations
Cadets took another step forward in their Communications and Information Systems (CIS) training, working with radios and improving their communication skills. Clear and effective communication is critical in military and leadership settings, and our cadets are developing the confidence to operate in structured environments.
Leadership Development: Stepping Up
Leadership training continued as cadets were challenged to take charge in various scenarios. Whether leading small teams or making quick decisions under pressure, these sessions help build the confidence and discipline needed to be effective leaders in the cadet force and beyond.
Map Reading: Navigating Success
Navigation skills were put to the test as cadets worked on map reading, an essential skill for any aspiring leader. Understanding terrain, coordinates, and route planning ensures they are prepared for future exercises where teamwork and problem-solving will be crucial.
Drill: Precision and Discipline
Drill remains a fundamental part of training, instilling discipline and respect within the ranks. Cadets practiced their movements with precision, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and preparation for formal parades. Their commitment to perfecting drill is leading them ever closer to the proud moment of receiving their cadet berets.
Air Rifle Training: Accuracy and Control
On the range, cadets continued to refine their air rifle handling skills, improving accuracy and maintaining a strong focus on safety. Their dedication to controlled and precise shooting is paying off, with clear improvements seen week after week.
Looking Ahead
With each training session, cadets continue to build on their skills and push themselves to new heights. Whether learning first aid, mastering navigation, or honing leadership abilities, they are developing qualities that will serve them well both in the cadet program and in life.
bird boxes
After last year's drama with Blue Tits nesting in strange places, the Crafting with Nature after school club decided to decorate some bird boxes kindly donated by a member of staff. These will be placed around the school in bird appropriate places during half term.
Mr Halson, myself and the students from the club will be keeping a close eye on them through Spring to see if they have any interest!
Any progress will be reported back through the blog with pictures.
year 13 artwork
The art department just had to share some Year 13 artwork with you at it immerged from the kiln this morning on it's maker, Coral's 18th birthday. This octopus will form the centrepiece of an installation to highlight environmental issues as the finale for Coral's personal investigation project. She has used oxides and glazes to create an interesting surface texture and to draw attention to the facts and figures etched into the surface. Well done Coral, a brilliant achievement.
year 8 fun friday - bingo
Winners from Year 8 Bingo were Freddie Bowerbank, Farah Davidson and Ben Walters.Karaoke
Year 7 - Dee Davies and Alfie Carpenter-Sorton
Year 8 - Serenity Ward and Oliver Forsdyke
Year 9 - Isabella Allen and Jaylen Hunter
Year 10 - Lucy McMahon and William Kelly
Year 9 progress in county cup
On Monday TA took on Exmouth in the last 16 of the county cup. TA looked to bounce back from the two defeats in the National Cups against Milfield.
TA started on the front foot and took control of the game very early on. TA went one nil up after good work on the left from Michael Arsov before striker Alex Moss tapped in from close range. The lead was soon doubled when Kean O’Neil scored a fantastic half volley from out wide on the left that left the keeper with no chance.
The second half started much like the first with TA on the front foot however Exmouth’s gun hoe approach was started to ask a few questions. TA though soon made it 3-0 when Brad Harrison headed home a Lee Stevens corner. Exmouth then pulled one back from a well struck free kick before TA went 4-1 up through Zak Haridi. Exmouth then scored another when their striker scored from outside the box with a wonder strike
TA will now play the winners of Colyton or St Peters in the quarter finals.
Y7 Central Venue Netball
The Year 7 netball academy had a great time at the Central Venue Netball League on Tuesday. Both squads displayed great teamwork and positivity on court and were great ambassadors for Torquay Academy!
The A team connected well, tracking their players defensively enabling them to win the ball and used space well to take the ball to goal time and time again. This hard work resulted in winning both their matches (11-1 & 10-3) and securing a space in the Division 1 playoffs.
The B team also worked well together and never gave up, despite facing some very tough opposition. They defended well, making it difficult for the opposition, and worked relentlessly to try to bring the ball through the court. Unfortunately the opposition utilised every small error that we made. Although both matches were lost, the improvement is huge, and some well earned goals were scored!
Well done girls!
Teams:
Zenna Venter ©, Eva Thompson, Milly Skelly, Mimi Skelly, Ela Uven, Darcy Gibbings, Mia Kost, Sienna Hunter
Myah Bishop ©, Lilly-Ella Smith, Sienna Hunter, Poppy Hewings, Dee Davies, Sophia Houghton, Bella Stevenson, Achara Edmund
Oppositions Players of the Match: Dee Davies / Zenna Venter / Ela Uven
Coaches Players of the Match: Lilly-Ella Smith / Mia Kost / Milly Skelly
U15 netball
The U15 netball academy A and B teams went to Coombeshead on Wednesday, with both teams showcasing their remarkable progress they’ve made through their hard work and dedication.
The A team secured a dominant 15-6 win; their defense was solid, consistently winning turnovers and denying the opposition opportunities at goal. The court connections were seamless, with Maisie and Phoebe delivering some brilliant shooting, contributing to the team’s impressive victory.
Meanwhile, the B team, despite their strong performance, were unfortunate to lose 2-10. The scoreline didn’t reflect their effort and commitment on court. Their defense was tight, and they moved the ball well, creating some good opportunities. However, the opposition made the most of every chance, with precise shooting that ultimately widened the gap. The B team’s resilience and skill was evident, and with continued effort they’re sure to build as a team.
Opposition’s Players of the Match: Larna Waller & Maile Beavis
Player’s Players of the Match: Maisie Sandercock & Maile Beavis
Coaches Players of the Match: Ellie Farthing & Maile Beavis
Chloe German ©, Larna Waller, Maisie Sandercock, Phoebe Smith, Ashleigh Evans, Lucy McMahon, Ellie Farthing, Millie Swift ©, Maile Beavis, Connie Kinghorn, Rebecca Quarshie, Alexa Lyons, Lilly-Rose Garbett
Year 10 football
The U15s stormed through to the next round of the county cup with a dominant and devastating performance against Isca. The boys controlled the game from the start, and moved the ball patiently as we tried to break through the low block of our opponents. It took half an hour, but eventually Ben Jolly put us one up. The second half followed a similar trend, with us moving the ball exceptionally well and as Isca tired of chasing the ball, the goals soon flowed through Brad Harrison (3) Oscar Mills, Miko Piasecki and an own goal, to see us run out 7-1 winners.
Year 9 House Bowling Competition
Team TA year 9’s travelled to Hollywood bowl on Tuesday to compete in our first ever house bowling competition as a new part of our house sport program. Our house sport program is aimed at allowing students to engage in competition in minority sports as well as some mainstream. The sports on the program now include golf, cycling at the olympic velodrome, climbing, pickleball, swimming and footgolf among many others.
House bowling this week was a great success with students fully engaging and fiercely competing to achieve a place in the medals. Congratulations to all involved for gaining house points. The boys champion was James Beer and the girls was Sienna Welsh.
Gold - Sienna Welsh, Silver - Ruby Fitzgerald and Bronze - Immy Pace
Gold - James Beer, Silver - Tyler Evans and Bronze Ed Rackley
prestigious diamond award
Year 7 - Kyle Squires
governor's silver certificates
Year 7 - Lexi Walker, Laila Stuttaford, Harry Monro, Luna Mearns, Willow-Mae Calland and Myles Bonnici
governor's bronze certificates
Year 7 - Sienna Hunter, Peyton Wilkin, Kaiden Ilhan, Rhia Holding, Louie Gribbin, Calvin Downer, Ruby Ross, Cody Butler and Evan Jones
Year 8 - Summer Reed
Principal's gold certificates
Year 7 - Beau-Angel Talbot, Amaris Quennell, Cian McHugh, Heath Slater-Saunt, Joel Cotton, Max Bovey, George Ballance, Kai Parton, Lillyanna Edmonds, Brooke Dennett, Chloe Bastow, Isla Parsons, Caelan O'Gorman, Jude Nwachukwu and Zofia Bocianowska
Year 8 - Luke Sandeman, Kaitlin Towell, George Garbutt, Seren Panther-Glinn, Bailey Taylor, Jessica Stoyle, Stefan Manta, Frances Roberts and Esme Poole
principal's silver certificates
Year 7 - Erin Gayton, Kieran Truong, Kobe Laker, Sophia Hill, Lincoln Trapp, Annabella Hodge and Pandora Ferguson
Year 8 - Theo Slater, Layla Lock, Lily Langler, Ellie-Mae Burton, Farah Davidson, Rosie Bevan, Ethan Hindom, Jess Wiltshire, Matilda Thorner, Seren Stephenson, Annalise Little, Oaklie Chancellor, Hydie Munday, Freddie Wallis and Lilly Shaw
Year 9 - Kiara Ujj, Will Wrathall, Charlotte Holmes-Vittles, Vinnie Frankum, Lilly-Rose Garbett and Edi Ferencz Csibi
Principal's bronze certificates
Year 7 - Alfie Carpenter-Sorton, Luka Hingley and Blake Hawkes
Year 8 - Xanthe Tyson, Chantelle Robinson, May McDonough, Olivia Martin, Elliott Hytche, Frederick Blagden, Bonnie Stacey, Emilee Fenner, Ava McArdle, Freddie Novis, Kumar Hopton, Bradley Wright and Jake Richards
Year 9 - Ruby Chamberlain, Teddy Watson, Michael Wynd, Dylan Matthews, Scarlett Hill, Annie Aldous, Max Warner, Reef Whayman and Katie Peryer
House stars of the week
Year 7
Brunel - Tehya Quennell
Christie - Paisley Taylor
Darwin - Kamile Degutyte
Fawcett - Macie Gay
Kitson - Sophia Hill
Nearne - Sara Szewczuk
Pengelly - Emilia Hedgecock
Year 8
Brunel - Treesa Telson
Christie - Elissia Greenwood
Darwin - Ebany Fawkes
Fawcett - Ellie Palmer
Harrison - Mason Maxwell
Kitson - Alba McKechan
Nearne - Madison Wood
Pengelly - Janson Tandy
Year 9
Brunel - Stella de Rose
Christie - Ava Wilson
Darwin - Tom Weaver
Fawcett - Gustaw Adamczak
Harrison - Heston Hart
Kitson - Reef Whayman
Nearne - Leah Hollis
Pengelly - Zak Haridi
Homework Stars of the Week
Year 7
Brunel - Tyler Moss
Christie - Harry Monro
Darwin - Toby Young
Fawcett - Gabriel Talbot-Powner
Kitson - Jacob Hicks
Nearne - Ella Batten
Pengelly - Scarlett Slater
Year 8
Brunel - Daisy-Mae Rees
Christie - Andy Iftode
Darwin - Immy Shaw
Fawcett - Emelia Wood
Harrison - Harley Smith
Kitson - Max Kapusta
Nearne - Frances Roberts
Pengelly - Lucas Vesely
Year 9
Brunel - Tessy Watson
Christie - Elijah Addai
Darwin - Kayla Hadley
Fawcett - Dylan Tripp
Harrison - Dolly Gagg
Kitson - Mollie Peters
Nearne - Zach Venter
Pengelly - Holly Nunn
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