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The HPA Creative Arts team headed out to Haytor and the surrounding area for a grey and windy walk. The purpose of the visit was for students to capture their own images for our HPA project, which will inspire their paintings in the coming sessions.
South Dartmoor have been working in partnership with Ashburton and Newton Abbot’s Neighbourhood Policing Team on a number of projects that have benefited our students in college and young people across our local community.
A recent Trail Trotters outing brought together a brilliant mix of new and returning students, all eager to take on a long circular route from near Cold East Cross up to Top Tor. The weather set an atmospheric scene: misty but dry, with a gentle chill in the air — perfect running conditions once everyone warmed up. Spirits were high from the start, and the group set off at a confident, steady pace.
Hospitality and Catering students visited Dartmoor Lodge and worked with staff across both front and back of house. They were able to see a business in action and learnt about key kitchen and service processes to support their course.
Students gained experience in service, health and safety, stock control, table settings, taking orders and a range of professional hospitality skills. They were fantastic ambassadors for the college throughout the visit.
Year 10 Art and Design students have been immersing themselves in hands‑on creativity through inspiring sessions at MAKE Southwest. During their first visit, students took part in a pottery workshop led by the immensely talented Joss Hibbs from Powdermills Pottery. They learned how to throw a pot and had the chance to explore and document the KINETIC exhibition currently on display.
As part of a constant programme of guest speakers, our Sixth Form students enjoyed an engaging and insightful talk from Jack, who works on the Sharpham Estate’s rewilding project along the River Dart. Jack shared how he and his team are transforming the 50‑acre site through rewilding—allowing the land to recover naturally, restoring ecological processes and encouraging the return of diverse plant and animal species.
The Year 11 Masterclass programme has made a strong start, with the History and Science departments delivering additional after‑college sessions designed to support students as they prepare for their GCSE examinations.
Live Sessions 2026 was a great success! Our talented performers brought energy, dedication and confidence to the stage, and we are incredibly proud of everyone involved.
The Year 7 High Performing Academy (HPA) programme got off to a colourful start as our Creative Arts group explored the work of local artists and drew inspiration from the beautiful place we call home - Dartmoor. Using these ideas, students began creating expressive collages.
Congratulations to our U13 Girls Cricket Team, who have qualified for the Chance to Shine County Finals in March!
Ten Tors training is off to a flying (and chilly) start this year! Participants in the 35, 45 and 55 mile challenges trekked across the North Moor at the weekend, enjoying the last traces of snow.
We enjoyed a truly wonderful day as our musicians prepared for the festive season and our Christmas celebrations. Our choir and orchestras travelled to Exeter, Newton Abbot, Ashburton Primary School and Buckfast Abbey, delighting audiences with outdoor performances of carols in readiness for our Annual Carol Service.
