Torquay Academy

Matilda the Musical is Coming!

Get ready for some "revolting" fun! Our Performing Arts Academy (PAA) students are working hard, twice a week, to bring Matilda the Musical to our stage in just six weeks. The excitement is palpable.

They're throwing themselves into rehearsals with real gusto, and I've been lucky enough to see some sneak previews. From little "revolting children" to the terrifying Trunchbull, the cast is brilliant. Matilda's story of courage and kindness is one everyone will love.

And the set? It's amazing. Miss Pappin has designed something truly special, with some fantastic special effects planned that will add a real touch of magic. You won't want to miss them.

The PAA is such an important part of our school, giving students a chance to shine. Matilda is the result of months of hard work, and I'm incredibly proud of everyone involved.

Performances are on 17th-20th March at 6pm in The Platform. Tickets will be available soon. Come and see the magic for yourselves – it's going to be fantastic!

From TA to Conservatoire: Ben's Musical Journey to Leeds

We are absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news about one of our exceptionally talented students, Ben German, who has been offered a place to study music at one of the most prestigious music institutions in the country, Leeds Conservatoire. This is a momentous achievement, marking the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and a burning passion for music.

For those who know Ben, this news comes as no surprise. His journey at TA began back in Year 5, when he first auditioned for a performing arts place. Even then, Leeds Conservatoire was his dream destination. He was captivated by its reputation as a leading institution, renowned for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians and its vibrant, industry-focused approach. Been went on to study music performance and music technology in Year 9 and is currently in the final stages of the full-time, triple A level Music course in sixth form.

Over the past seven years, Ben has become an integral part of the musical life of our school. He has graced our stage in countless concerts, his talent shining brightly with every performance. As a dedicated member of our Music Academy, he has honed his skills and embraced every opportunity to grow as a musician. Beyond his own performances, Ben has generously shared his passion and expertise, inspiring the next generation of drummers through his 1-2-1 lessons. 

Ben's dedication and self-discipline are evident in his remarkable progress through the Trinity grade system. Achieving Grade 8 in Year 9 is an astonishing feat in itself, but Ben has gone even further, recently completing the ATCL diploma – a level reached by very few musicians beyond Grade 8. This is a testament to his unwavering commitment and the sheer amount of work he has put in.

The audition process for Leeds Conservatoire is rigorous, demanding a high level of skill and knowledge. Ben was required to perform a piece of music lasting over eight minutes, demonstrate his improvisational skills with a 16-bar improvisation in three different styles, and answer in-depth questions on music theory and techniques. His success speaks volumes about his talent and preparation.

Ben will be embarking on a BA in Popular Music at Leeds Conservatoire. He is particularly excited about immersing himself in the vibrant arts culture of Leeds, working with state-of-the-art facilities, and, most importantly, performing alongside other highly regarded musicians. 

Huge congratulations to Ben! We are incredibly proud of you. Your hard work, dedication, and unwavering passion have made your dream a reality. We have no doubt that you will thrive at Leeds Conservatoire and go on to achieve great things in the world of music. We wish you all the very best for this exciting next chapter.

year 10 mock exams

Our year 10 students have completed their first set of formal mock exams this week in preparation for their GCSE exams in summer 2026. 

They have made us very proud with their excellent behaviour and maturity in the exam rooms and briefings. They have had the opportunity to understand the extensive rules that go along public exams and to get to grips with revision schedules etc. They have tested which revision techniques have worked for them, and those that have not. 

Well done to you all.

geography with miss main

In Miss Main’s 8T9 Geography lessons this cycle, students have been exploring how Low-Income Countries can slow urbanisation and improve living conditions in squatter settlements. They have examined various schemes to determine the most effective approach.

To conclude the learning cycle, they analysed trade between Africa and China, considering whether China’s investment will have a lasting positive impact on African countries. The lesson ended with students creating revision mind maps in preparation for their upcoming assessment.

sixth form apprenticeship fair

Our Sixth Form students recently attended the Apprenticeship Fair at Exeter’s Sandy Park, where they had the opportunity to explore a wide range of career pathways. The event was incredibly informative, with students engaging directly with employers, training providers, and industry professionals to gain valuable insights into apprenticeship opportunities across various sectors. From engineering and healthcare to business and digital industries, students left with a greater understanding of the skills and qualifications required for their future careers. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to ask questions, network, and consider the next steps in their professional journeys.

cadets

Torquay Academy Cadets: Wednesday Training Session

Another action-packed Wednesday evening at Torquay Academy saw cadets from both the RAF and Army sections engaged in a variety of challenging and rewarding training activities.

RAF Section: Final Preparations for RAST Competition

With the upcoming RAST competition fast approaching, the RAF section was fully focused on their final preparations. Drill practice was a top priority, ensuring precision, teamwork, and discipline were at their best. Cadets also refined their skills in first aid scenarios, preparing to handle emergency situations with confidence and efficiency. Additionally, cyber security training took center stage, equipping cadets with knowledge on digital threats and how to counter them. The determination and commitment shown by the RAF section highlight their readiness for the competition ahead.

Year 8 Army Cadets: Basic Training in Full Swing

Meanwhile, the Year 8 Army cadets continued their cadet basic training, pushing themselves to master the fundamentals. The evening was packed with activities, including:

• Drill practice, ensuring smartness and discipline

• St John’s First Aid, building life-saving skills

• Map reading, crucial for navigation and field exercises

• Outdoor cooking, learning to prepare meals in the field

• Phonetic Alphabet and the 24-hour clock, vital communication skills

• Fieldcraft, practicing essential military techniques

Excitement and anticipation were high among the younger cadets as they worked towards earning their berets. Saluting and military etiquette remained key elements of their training, reinforcing the pride and respect within the cadet ranks.

Air Rifle Training & Badge Presentations

The air rifle range was in full operation, with cadets focusing on accuracy and consistency. Those achieving small grouping sizes were awarded badges, recognizing their hard work and skill development. The dedication shown by these cadets in improving their marksmanship was evident, with many striving for excellence in this key discipline.

Year 9 & 10: CFIT Course Begins

For the Year 9 and 10 cadets, the start of the Cadet Force Instructional Techniques (CFIT) course marked an important milestone. This course is designed to develop leadership and instructional skills, putting cadets on track for promotions and senior training courses. As they progress, they will take on greater responsibilities, mentoring younger cadets and furthering their own personal development.

A Fantastic Evening of Training

Overall, it was another successful and productive evening for the Torquay Academy cadets. With rigorous training, skill-building activities, and a strong sense of camaraderie, each cadet is continuously growing and developing. The dedication and enthusiasm displayed across all sections reinforce the strength and spirit of the cadet program.

We look forward to another great session next week—onwards and upwards, cadets!

art round up

Year 7 have showcased their creativity this week in their end-of-project assessment inspired by Mexico's vibrant Day of the Dead festival. The work featured imaginative skeleton drawings, intricate Mexican pattern collages, and beautifully detailed sugar skull observations in pen and coloured pencil. 

Year 8 have been learning about atmospheric perspective this week, drawing inspiration from WWI and the works of war artist Paul Nash. They created powerful silhouettes, expressive landscape drawings, and dramatic colour wash skies, capturing the mood and depth of wartime scenes. 

Year 9 have been exploring the structures of the school building as inspiration for their artwork over the last few weeks. Starting with photography, they progressed through collage, mono-printing, chalk and charcoal drawings, and card relief, culminating in stunning clay relief pieces. A fantastic journey through diverse techniques and materials!

Year 10 fun friday

On Friday the year 10s Fun Friday was Bingo! Farrah won both one and two lines, while Fredi won the Full House! 

Miss Lewis's PE group reach new heights!

Year 10 girls are currently in their third week of Outdoor Adventurous Activities in PE. In this particular lesson, the objective was to use their communication and team-work skills to complete various coloured courses up the climbing wall. As you can see, they all rose to the challenge! 

Year 7 - Zenna Venter and Ryu Cutts

Year 8 - Zach Kittow and Ellie Burton

  Year 9 - Neeve Thomson and Lee Stevens

Year 10 State Schools Tournament

The Year 10 Netball Academy performed outstandingly in a very strong state schools tournament on Tuesday.  The improvement in skill and determination of this squad over the last year is immense, and the girls received lots of external praise confirming this.  Although the girls did not progress into the next round, their passing, movement, defence, rate of interceptions and effort throughout every match was commendable.

The girls represented TA in such a positive manner both on and off the court and were voted to be the worthy winners of the Fair Play Trophy.  Well done girls!

Overall Oppositions Player: Larna Waller

Overall Player’s Player: Phoebe Smith

Overall Coaches Player: Phoebe Smith

Team: Chloe German ©, Phoebe Smith, Larna Waller, Maisie Sandercock, Lucy McMahon, Ellie Farthing, Connie Kinghorn, Frankie Skelly, Ashleigh Evans

sixth form netball success

64-22 win

The Sixth Form netball academy delivered a strong performance in their AOC match against Richard Huish on Wednesday, securing a dominant 64-22 victory.  Every player contributed to the victory, with noticeable improvements in court possession and centre pass conversions.  The teamwork was seamless and the execution was sharp.  This impressive win solidifies our position at the top of the league, keeping us in a strong place for the rest of the season.  Well done team!

Oppositions Player:  Elspeth Herring

Players Player: Maisy Green

Coaches Player: Tammy Westacott

Team: Mia Denby ©, Ellie Denby, Ellie Chammings, Evie Sutton, Tammy Westacott, Ellie Stone,Elspeth Herring, Maisy Green, Emily Graham

House Sport Competitions

Last week saw the return of our highly anticipated house sport competitions for Years 7-9. Each house competed for the chance to be crowned sports champions in either netball for the girls or tag rugby for the boys. The P.E department were particularly impressed with the high level of participation and competition which was displayed both on and off the court/pitch. Well done to all students that were involved in contributing to their houses success.

Year 7 Netball

The Year 7 netball academy attended their first league matches of the year on Tuesday.  All the girls represented Torquay Academy to the highest standard both on and off the court.  The A team connected well on the court and defended throughout, making it very difficult for the opposition to maintain possession of the ball.  They demonstrated some very fluid netball, scoring goal after goal resulting in two impressive wins.  (TA vs Teign 16-0 & TA vs Dartmouth 12-1)  The B team also played some fantastic netball, finding some lovely spaces and working hard to take the ball to goal.  Unfortunately they came up against some very tough opposing teams and lost their matches, but should be proud of the effort and teamwork that they displayed. 

Oppositions Players of the match: Zenna Venter & Sienna Hunter

Players Player: Mimi Skelly & Sienna Hunter

Coaches Player: Zenna Venter & Myah Bishop

Sixth Form Netball

The sixth form netball academy came up against a strong CFGS side on Wednesday.  The team played with determination, driving hard to meet the ball and defending well throughout the court. Despite a strong effort, CFGS took the lead by half time.  However, a solid third quarter saw TA win the quarter and close the gap, showing great resilience and teamwork.  TA continued with their momentum and pushed hard but unfortunately this wasn’t enough to take the win.  It was great to get all the girls out on court and see their individual and team progression.  Well done girls. 

Team: Mia Denby©, Ellie Denby, Evie Sutton, Ellie Chammings, Tammy Westacott, Ellie Stone, Summer Connolly, Maisy Green, Elspeth Herring, Emily Graham

Oppositions Player: Mia Denby

Players Player: Mia Denby

Coaches Player: Summer Connolly

Annalise Little - Athletics Success

On Saturday, Annalise Little in Year 8 represented Team TA in the Devon Schools Cross Country Championships in Exeter. Annalise raced against Year 8 and Year 9 girls from across Devon and finished an impressive 3rd place overall.

Annalise has now progressed through to the U14 South West finals on February 1st and will race the best girls who have also qualified from the whole of the South West region. Well done Annalise!

table tennis - junior team in sdttl

Our students continue to shine and make us proud in the South Devon and Torbay Table Tennis League.  

Five students – Aleksandra, Harrison, Ben, Gustaw, and Oliver – play in the same team. It is the only Junior Team in the league, which makes them even more special.  

For most of them, this is their first season in the local league, but they are all performing brilliantly.  

Last week, Aleksandra, Gustaw, and Harrison secured an impressive 8:2 victory against a team from Brixham. 

Good luck in your upcoming matches!

After-School Table Tennis Club

It was a strong start with a full house for the first sessions in 2025.

We are delighted to see our regular attendees along with a few new faces starting the sport each week.

We are nearly at full capacity, but are always ready and eager to accommodate new students.

If you wish to join us - Monday from 15:15 to 16:15.

Just don’t forget to bring your PE kit.

Year 8 Netball

The Year 8 netball academy returned to court with a bang on Tuesday, securing two dominant victories in their first league matches. From the first whistle, the girls were focused and determined.  Their excellent through court defence made it difficult for the opposition to score, and their fluid ball movement contributed to their convincing wins.  Well done to all the girls and we look forward to building on this momentum for their upcoming matches.

Torquay Academy vs CFGrammar School B 15-0 Win

Oppositions Player: Maddy Wood

Coaches Player: Maddy Wood

Torquay Academy vs Newton Abbot College 10-1 Win

Oppositions Player: Matilda Thorner

Coaches Player: Lily Langler

Overall Players Player: Maddy Wood

Year 9 Football

On Monday the year 9 team travelled to Somerset to take on Millfield school in the Elite National Cup.  Millfield had knocked TA out of the National Cup before Christmas. TA started well and were the better team TA created chances but unfortunately found the woodwork would deny them on two occasions.  The second half was more in favour of Millfield but Gk Oscar Spurle was in determined mood to keep them out.  Eventually the deadlock was broken when Millfield were awarded a corner and a rebound that lead to a block tackle saw the ball shoot straight to the goal and into the net off the underside of the bar.  TA pushed for a late equaliser and gained a corner with seconds to go.  TA threw everyone up and Oscar Spurle caused chaos with TA getting a head on the ball and being denied a late penalty much to the anger and frustration of the team. It was a superb display by the team and they certainly deserved more from it.  

Year 11 Crossfit

This term we have started taking groups of Year 11s across to Westcountry Crossfit for their PE lessons. The students worked hard and certainly enjoyed it!

Devon Schools Individual Table Tennis Championship 2024/25

Two Devon Table Tennis Champions for Torquay Academy!!!

What a fantastic day of competition in Plymouth, and we’re coming home with two gold medals:

Aleksandra – Devon Champion (U16 Girls)

Oliver – Devon Champion (U13 Boys)

A huge well done to all our players who gave it their all in some tough matches:  

Ben – Quarter-finalist (U16 Boys)  

Gracjan – Quarter-finalist (U13 Boys)  

Tom, Gustaw, Evan, Oliver, and Finley – Reached the Last 16  

Some incredibly close battles, brilliant performances, and plenty of learning experiences. 

You all made us proud! 

Year 7 Football

On Monday, the Year 7 boys continued there excellent season with a win in the last 32 of the national cup. After a journey to St Osmunds in Dorchester, the boys battled through awful wind, rain and a tricky surface to triumph 3-0 and have a home draw in the last 16!

governor's platinum certificates

Year 7 - Kyle Squires

Governor's silver certificates

Year 7 - Jack Lennox-Statham

Governor's bronze certificates

Year 7 - Kayleb Yeo, Amelia Woodland, Laila Stuttaford, Mimi Skelly, Harry Monro, Luna Mearns, Chloe Eales, Willow-Mae Calland, Myles Bonnici and Archie Kershaw

Principal's gold certificates

Year 7 - Jack Jackson, Sienna Hunter, Paisley Taylor, Archie Hudson, Rhia Holding, Skye Beesley, Ruby Ross, Bella Stevenson, Corah Luscombe, Macie Gay, Amelia Palla, Samuel McDonald and George Davies

Year 8 - Jack Robinson, Summer Reed, Max Kapusta, Henry Nash and James Costello

Principal's silver certificates

Year 7 - Gracie Harvey, Cole Washington, Finley Thompson, Abigail Rayment, Joe McDonough, Lilly Jones, Poppy Hewings, Cole Barton, Kai Cornish, Skyla-Rose Whitfield, Gabriele Stadalninkaite, Gergo Rammer, Lucy Matthews, Tyler Fudge, Ava Wiggins, Ruby Treadaway, Heath Slater-Saunt, Abigail Harkin, Joel Cotton, Henry Cooper, Oscar Josey, Ethan Halliday, Lillyanna Edmonds, Myles Anyon, Chloe Bastow, Isla Parsons, Sienna Frost, Olivia Fisher, Fynlay Dever, Ella Batten and Jessica Green

Year 8 - Bonnie Talbot, Poppy Anderson, Serenity Ward, Jamie Hancox, Elena Bolton, Seren Chadwick, Harry Austin, Oktawian Siennicki, Lily-Jo Prior, Jesse Isemede, Gabi Cobain, Harlow Bown, Casie Howell, Harry Rowlands, Stefan Manta, Emily Bowden, Toryn Bond, Olivier Szyszka, Viktoria Simunkova, Heidi Milner, Edith Mackenzie, Poppy Haslett, Madeline Woodger, Esme Poole, Alfie Mackin and Elizabeth Francis

Year 9 - Harry McCarthy and Tyler Evans

Principal's bronze certificates

Year 7 - Poppy Pope, Simeon Manners, Harry Pople, Ethan Eales, Sam Connelly, Freddie Brabon, Lilly-Ella Smith, Sophia Hill and Eden Zaple

Year 8 - Zachary Kittow, Maddie Smith, Emily Redmond, Toby Preston, George Pitts, Charlie O'Connor, Oakley Mudge, Eric Montague, Wiktor Koza, Jorgie-Jayne Barnett, Bobby O'Regan, Isaac Mccabe, Ellie-Mae Burton, Alana Houlihan, Seraphina Rozier, Mila Cairney, Ayrton Sharp, Lily Ellis, Corey Davies, Leo Shaw, Catherine Ramesh Mani, George Moran, Daisy Dorman, Florence Botten, Frazer Lewis, Olivier Kawula, Cayden Castle, Gracie Fancourt, Lucas Vesely, Cooper Syms and Levi Jones

Year 9 - Poppy Sanderson, Izzy Goldsbrough, Anastasiia Tukilush, Freddie Fenner, Ethan Lewis, Ethan Veasey, James Beer, Matthew Campan, Louise Porter, Luke Smith-Harding, Logan Watt, Charlotte Holmes-Vittles, Vinnie Frankum, Lilly-Rose Garbett, Elliott Baines, Euan Miller, Alexa Lyons, Johnny Sandbrook, Ed Rackley, Dylan Tripp, Jack Forte, Keane O'Neill, Heidi Bowers, Summer Pallant, Archie Somerset, Zakariyah Haridi, Millie Russell, Mia Hawkes and Ivan Masilakovas

House stars of the week

Year 7

Brunel - Joe McDonough

Christie - Sienna Hunter

Darwin -  Tallulah Owen

Fawcett - Maddox Findlay-Peers

Harrison -  Brooke Harding

Kitson -  Nancy Wheeler

Nearne -  Jude Nwachukwu

Pengelly - Liv Reed

Year 8

Brunel - Rosco Biagott

Darwin -  Chloe Taylor

Fawcett - Anna Rozanska

Harrison -  Phoebe Acton

Kitson -  Seth McCann

Nearne -  Gracie Fancourt

Pengelly - Cooper Syms

Year 9

Brunel - Oliver Ayres

Christie - Cody Burton

Darwin -  Lauren Harbutt

Fawcett - Ellie Simpson

Harrison -  Harley Lewis

Kitson -  Heidi Bowers

Nearne -  Oscar Read

Pengelly - Ethan Veasey

Homework Stars of the Week

Year 7

Brunel - Abigail Rayment

Christie - Kayleb Yeo

Darwin -  Zack Jeneway

Fawcett - Achara Edmund

Harrison -  Caleb Drein

Kitson -  Madison Stewart

Nearne -  Isla Parsons

Pengelly - Jasmine Roberts

Year 8

Brunel - George Giles

Darwin -  Riley Johnson

Fawcett - Riley Gomes

Harrison -  Annalise Little

Kitson -  Corey Davies

Nearne -  Cayden Castle

Pengelly - Ocean Brant

Year 9

Brunel - Bali Mudge

Christie - Sophie Dean

Darwin -  Faith Stevens

Fawcett - Saphi Byers

Harrison -  Kordian Wisnik

Kitson -  Ollie Martin

Nearne -  Alfie Spicer

Pengelly - Izzy Goldsbrough

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