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.
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.”
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.”
The events will be held on the following dates, below are dates and links to the events:
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.
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
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:
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.”
Yesterday, our Year 11 students had the fantastic opportunity to attend a Careers Fair hosted by Winterstoke Hundred Academy. The event brought together a wide range of post-16 providers, including colleges, universities, employers, and apprenticeship representatives.
Students engaged in meaningful conversations, explored future pathways, and gained valuable insights into the options available after they leave The Sky Academy. This experience allowed them to network with industry professionals and education specialists, helping to raise aspirations and broaden horizons.
The Careers Fair proved to be an invaluable experience, inspiring our students and equipping them with knowledge to make informed decisions about their next steps. We are proud of their enthusiasm and look forward to seeing how this event supports them in shaping their future.
Charlie Ennals Careers/Personal Development lead at The Sky Academy said: “Events like these are incredibly valuable for our students. It gives them the confidence to explore new possibilities and begin shaping their own futures.
“We’re grateful to Winterstoke Hundred Academy for hosting such an engaging and informative fair.”
The SKY Academy has been proudly celebrating Black History Month under the inspiring theme of ‘Standing firm in power and pride.’
Throughout the month, students across the school have come together to mark this important event by signing a collective pledge to stand united against racism and discrimination in all its forms.
In the Upper School, students have been learning about the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and, inspired by his message, have written and performed their own ‘I Have a Dream’ speeches.
As part of our ‘Drop Everything and Read’ initiative, students have also been reading “Boys Don’t Cry” by Malorie Blackman, a powerful novel following the Bridgeman family as their lives are transformed by the arrival of an unexpected baby.
In addition, students have been collaborating creatively to produce a collective piece of artwork that reflects the themes of unity, strength, and equality explored throughout the month.
Charlie Ennals, Careers and Personal Development Lead, said: “Black History Month is a vital opportunity for our students to learn, reflect, and celebrate the incredible contributions of Black individuals throughout history.
“Our theme this year, ‘Standing firm in power and pride’ encourages every student to embrace their identity, challenge injustice, and take pride in the diversity that strengthens our school community.”
Sky Celebrates World Mental Health Day
On Friday 10th October, World Mental Health Day, staff and students came together, wearing yellow, to raise funds in support for YoungMinds charity, showing children and young people they’re not alone with their mental health.
Students took part in a range of activities. Our Year 11s baked a range of cakes, which other students thoroughly enjoyed – spending £30 worth of points!! The boys from The Base appreciated the benefits of being outside by soaking up nature within our local hills, and lower school students celebrated by recognising all the amazing qualities they possess, taste-testing an array of yellow foods, and having a good, old boogie!
The boys at Sky Academy have done well in their exams this year and have exceeded last year’s outcomes in terms of the number of qualifications achieved by each student.
Almost all of the Year 11 cohort have secured a place in further education or an equivalent pathway appropriate to needs.
Children have received GCSEs in English, maths, art, Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, food technology as well as PE.
Some 69% achieved a qualification in both English and maths, with 85% earning a qualification in maths and 92% achieving a qualification in English.
Sky Academy Principal Gaby Long Principal: “It has been great welcoming several of our students and parents in today to receive their results, to celebrate their personal successes and the progress that they have made throughout their time at Sky.
“I am delighted that so many of our 11 cohort have secured a post-16 destination. I’m also pleased with the academic outcomes and the number of children who have achieved so many qualifications and have the currency they need to take the next steps towards adulthood, employment and independence.
“Our team are all extremely proud of every single one of our young people who are brilliant ambassadors for our school and community.”
The Sky Academy students were among nearly 2,000 young people across the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) who received their results today – with many celebrating outstanding results and getting set for the next stage of their education.
CLF Deputy CEO Sally Apps said: “As a trust we would like to extend our congratulations to the 1,994 students who are receiving their GCSE and equivalent qualifications today.
“These are the result of considerable effort, diligence and determination and the results celebrated today are opening the door to a range of excellent onward destinations for our young people who have studied at our mainstream and specialist schools.
“It is with considerable gratitude to our staff and parents that we celebrate, knowing that these outcomes are achieved as a result of a considerable team effort.
“It is particularly pleasing to see that this year, more young people who have experienced challenge and disadvantage during their school career are collecting strong results.
“We are proud of them and delighted for them, and wish all CLF Year 11 students – now part of our valued alumni and in many cases continuing their onward study with us – a happy and successful educational career.”
