News Stories

Safer Internet Day at The Sky Academy

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The Sky Academy celebrates children’s mental health

The Sky Academy proudly took part in Children’s Mental Health Week, a national initiative that encourages young people to understand the importance of positive mental health and wellbeing.

As part of the week, students enjoyed a special enrichment afternoon, where they were able to choose from a variety of activities designed to support relaxation, confidence, and overall wellbeing.

Staff across the school led engaging sessions that gave students the opportunity to try new experiences, develop new skills, and take time to reflect on their mental health.

Activities included weight training, cooking and baking, mindful colouring, board games and puzzles, VR and gaming, and a fire pit session with hot chocolates. Students also enjoyed a trip to Haynes Motor Museum, adding an exciting off-site experience to the programme.

The afternoon was not only enjoyable but also closely linked to the academy’s personal development curriculum.

By offering opportunities to collaborate, build resilience, explore new interests, and strengthen social skills, the event supported students’ growth both in and beyond school.

Bringing together students from different year groups further encouraged teamwork, communication, and a strong sense of community.

Overall, the week proved to be a highly successful and uplifting experience, giving students valuable time to prioritise their wellbeing while continuing to grow as confident and resilient young people.

Charlie Ennals, Careers and Personal Development Lead at The Sky Academy, said: “Children’s Mental Health Week is such an important opportunity to remind our students that their wellbeing matters just as much as their academic success.

“It was fantastic to see so many students trying new activities, supporting each other, and taking time to reflect.

“The positive energy throughout the week really showed the strength of our school community.”

 

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LiFEbeat – Adventures Away From Home

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Sky learners gain catering experience at Pizza Express

A group of Year 6 and 7 learners from Sky Academy recently enjoyed an exciting educational visit to Pizza Express in Taunton.

The visit aimed to introduce learners to a range of careers within the food and hospitality industry while providing valuable hands-on experience in a real working restaurant.

During the session, learners were given the opportunity to make their own pizzas from scratch, choosing from a variety of fresh ingredients before enjoying their creations together.

The experience allowed them to develop practical skills, teamwork, and confidence, while also gaining insight into the day-to-day roles involved in running a successful restaurant.

A spokesperson from Sky Academy said: “This visit was a fantastic opportunity for our learners to explore potential career paths and learn in a fun, engaging environment.

“Experiences like this help bring learning to life and inspire our students to think about their futures with confidence and curiosity.”

Sky Academy would like to thank the team at Pizza Express Taunton for their warm welcome and for providing such a memorable and enriching experience for the learners.

 

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Sky students take part in college taster days

Year 11 students at The Sky Academy recently took part in exciting college taster days at The Crockers Centre, part of Bridgwater and Taunton College, giving them valuable insight into life beyond school.

Designed to prepare students for their next chapter, these link days offered hands-on experience within a college setting, allowing students to explore potential courses, develop practical skills, and gain a clearer understanding of future career pathways. The opportunity supports students in making informed decisions as they plan their transition into further education.

The Sky Academy was also delighted to welcome Roy, course leader from The Crockers Centre, who visited the academy to meet with two students who have already received offers for their chosen courses.

This visit provided an opportunity to celebrate their success and further strengthen the link between The Sky Academy and Bridgwater and Taunton College.

This fantastic experience reflects The Sky Academy’s ongoing commitment to ensuring students benefit from meaningful and informative encounters with further and higher education.

Charlie Ennals, Careers and Personal Development Lead at The Sky Academy, said: “Opportunities like these college taster days are invaluable for our students.

“They allow young people to experience learning beyond the classroom, build confidence in their choices, and see first-hand the exciting pathways available to them.

“We are proud to support our students in making informed decisions about their futures and to work closely with partners such as Bridgwater and Taunton College to make this possible.”

 

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Sky congratulates student on RAF Sport Cadet Award win

The Sky Academy is proud to congratulate Harley Curtis on winning the RAF Sport Cadet Award for Swimming and Running.

Harley, who is planning a future career in the armed forces, demonstrated exceptional determination, courage, and elite sportsmanship to achieve this prestigious award.

His commitment to training and performance across both disciplines highlights his strong personal drive and dedication to excellence.

The RAF Air Cadets (RAFAC) Sport Award Scheme recognises cadets for their participation, proficiency, and competitive achievements in athletics (running) and swimming. The awards form part of a wider sports programme aimed at promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition among cadets.

Harley’s success reflects both his individual effort and the values encouraged through the RAF Air Cadets and The Sky Academy and serves as an inspiration to fellow cadets pursuing excellence in sport and service.

Gaby Long, Principal of The Sky Academy, said: “Well done, Harley — this is a fantastic achievement and a clear reflection of your dedication and hard work.

“You have a very promising career ahead of you in the armed forces. We are incredibly proud of you and wish you great success in the future.”

 

 

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Foundation Learning Transition Evenings

UCS College Foundation Learning Transition Evening events next week, designed to provide young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) needs with valuable insights and options for their next steps in preparation for adulthood.

The events will be held on the following dates, below are dates and links to the events:

  • Strode College: Tuesday 3rd February 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/foundation-learning-transitions-evening-strode-college-tickets-1980088244241?aff=oddtdtcreator

  • Taunton College: Wednesday, 4th February 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/foundation-learning-transitions-evening-taunton-college-tickets-1980087133920?aff=oddtdtcreator

  • Bridgwater College: Thursday, 5th February 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/foundation-learning-transitions-evening-bridgwater-college-tickets-1980087952368?aff=oddtdtcreator

 We will have a wide range of stakeholders in attendance, including local support services. This is a fantastic opportunity for parents/carers and students to explore a broad array of pathways available to support their future aspirations.

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Notice of Academy Parent Councillor Election

1. Notice of Academy Parent Councillor Election

Notice of Academy Parent Councillor Election

Dear Parents and Carers,

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our Academy Council as a Parent Councillor! If you are passionate about our academy and want to make a difference, we encourage you to put your name forward for election. There is one parent councillor vacancy currently available for election.

What does being an Academy Councillor involve?

You don’t need to be a professional—your attitude and personal skills are what matter most. Our Academy Council meets five to six times a year, with occasional extra meetings during the school day. For your information The Sky Academy usually meets on a Monday evening at 3pm – 5pm (online). Councillors often focus on specific areas and are expected to attend meetings regularly, prepare in advance, and complete annual training. The term of office runs for four years.

Visits to the academy are also part of the role, offering valuable insights and perspectives. Parent Councillors bring a parent’s viewpoint to discussions and decisions, representing the parent body.

Deadline for Applications:

If you wish to stand for election, please complete the online form which you can access here or if you require a paper form, please contact the academy office, who will be happy to provide you with this.

The deadline for all expressions of interest is 4PM on Monday, 9th February 2026.

If we receive more expressions of interest than the number of vacancies, an election will be held.

If you would like to have a conversation with the Chair of the Academy Council to discuss the time commitment and remit of the role, please feel free to let me know and I can arrange this for you.

*Please note that communications received via the CLF/Academy website WILL NOT be accepted as a formal expression of interest for the purposes of this process without further confirmation.

For more information, please email recruitment.governance@clf.uk

Kind regards

Tessa Clark
Clerk to the Academy Council

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The Sky Academy hosts specialist conference

The Sky Academy recently played host to an inspiring internal specialist conference for colleagues across the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF).

The event brought together staff from the five specialist provisions within the CLF – The Sky Academy, Brook Academy, Lime Hills Academy, Snowdon Village, and Lansdown Park Academy – in a valuable opportunity for networking, collaborative learning, sharing best practice, and engaging in high-quality professional development.

Across the day, colleagues participated in a range of thought-provoking and practical sessions, including:

  • Reading and literacy development
  • Neurodiversity awareness
  • Racial literacy
  • Motivational interviewing
  • Supporting regulation with sensory activity

The conference proved both rewarding and energising, leaving colleagues with fresh insights, new strategies, and strengthened connections across the specialist community.

Emma Wykes, Specialist Provision Development Manager for the CLF, said: “Bringing our specialist provisions together in one space created a powerful sense of shared purpose.

“The day showcased the depth of expertise across the CLF and gave colleagues the opportunity to learn from one another, reflect, and return to their settings inspired.

“Our teams are committed to delivering the very best for our children and young people, and events like this strengthen that commitment even further.”

 

 

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The Sky Academy
Pickeridge Close
Taunton
Somerset
TA2 7HW
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The Sky Academy is proud to be part of the Cabot Learning Federation. 
Registered Company: Cabot Learning Federation
Company No: 06207590