​Personalised Support in Plymouth
​We know that every trainee’s journey is different. Our leadership team work closely with every individual to ensure they have the tools to succeed, including comprehensive support for those with additional needs.

"I have dyslexia and all my needs have been fully met throughout the course, something I am really grateful for. Dawn, Sara, and the wider team have been incredibly supportive, whether that is help with planning, navigating a tricky situation on placement, or simply talking something through."

Winning the Interview
The final hurdle of any training year is the job application process. Our Plymouth trainees benefit from intensive, one-on-one support - from polishing personal statements to mock interview practice - ensuring they are the most competitive candidates in the field.

"During the application process I received brilliant support from Sara and Dawn, from preparing my personal statement through to practising interview questions the day before. I could not recommend Exeter Consortium enough and feel so grateful I made the decision to train with them."

Train to Teach in Plymouth
Are you based in Plymouth, Ivybridge or South West Devon? Our Plymouth Hub at Marine Academy Primary is currently open for applications for the 2026/27 academic year.

​​The impact has been clear. Children are returning from playtimes calmer, more regulated and more ready to learn. Staff have seen a reduction in minor conflicts, as pupils are more absorbed in meaningful play opportunities. Lunchtimes now feel more positive and purposeful across the school.

As Charlie Church, a teacher at the school, shared:

“The OPAL project has continued to grow positively across the school. The impact has been noticeable - children are more engaged in play and more settled back in the classroom.”

This project reflects the aims of the Exeter Consortium School Project Fund: supporting small-scale ideas that deliver clear, lasting benefits for pupils and school communities.

Find out how to apply
Details about future School Project Fund rounds are shared in the Exeter Consortium monthly newsletter. Subscribe here to stay informed.

Reading is of my biggest passions, not just in teaching children the skills to read but also encouraging them to find the books, poems and stories that inspire and excite them. At St Thomas, we’ve developed a reading ladder that exposes children to a variety of genres and characters, allowing them to learn about others and build empathy but also to see themselves inside stories and feel that sense of being seen and belonging. I am so grateful to work alongside an amazing team who all prioritise a school culture based on a love of books. We enjoy celebrating big things like parent reading events, author visits and World Book Day, but more importantly, we all love talking about books and supporting children to build the will and skills to read for knowledge and pleasure.

In addition to leading English across the school, I also lead our Oracy programme with Voice21. I have enjoyed this challenge immensely, learning so much about the importance of speaking and listening and developing this as a priority at St Thomas. In a short time, we have seen an amazing increase in listening skills and justifying reasons through speaking in our children. I absolutely love leading our oracy assemblies and seeing children grow in confidence to share their ideas.

Most importantly, I love being in my Year 2 classroom. Aside from English, I especially love teaching maths, history and DT. We love class trips, listening to music, celebrating each others’ achievements and making sure everyone in our classroom is included and cared for. Getting to know the children and their interests, seeing the progress they make and helping make learning fun for them is the most rewarding feeling. I feel so grateful to be a part of their school journeys!”

Kathryn’s head teacher said “Going the extra mile, a ray of sunshine, a champion for children are just a few of the qualities which Mrs Morgan possesses. She not only teachers her Year 2 class but leads whole school initiatives: Early Reading, English, Voice 21 and ITT coordinator. Whilst the school’s Deputy has been on maternity leave she has also taken on extra responsibility supporting the Headteacher – one of those teachers who lights up the school with her presence (and her playlists before school are always welcome!) Mrs Morgan is passionate about every pupil in the school developing a love of reading for pleasure and leads parent workshops and regular CPD for the whole school staff. Her boundless energy and enthusiasm are best seen at playtimes as she charges around the playground playing ‘Pacman’ surrounded by beaming children. Every school needs a Mrs Morgan!”

Iwan Keirle, Teacher, Kenton Primary School.
Iwan was nominated by his head teacher.

Iwan’s headteacher said “I am nominating Iwan for the staff thank you scheme because of his outstanding dedication and support during an incredibly challenging time at Kenton Primary School. Following the devastating flood in September 2023, our school community has faced huge disruption, operating from temporary locations including Hope Church in Dawlish and Powderham Castle. Throughout this upheaval, Iwan has consistently gone above and beyond. Despite being early in his teaching career, he has shown remarkable resilience and a positive attitude. He has willingly moved equipment, run extra after-school clubs, and offered his support wherever needed to help colleagues and pupils alike. His enthusiasm and commitment have made a real difference to staff morale and pupil experiences. Now, he is ambitiously leading a Disney-level production of Matilda for Years 5 and 6, a testament to his creativity, leadership, and passion for giving children memorable, joyful opportunities even during difficult times.”


Simon Broom, Caretaker, Exminster Community Primary School.
Simon was nominated by his head teacher.

Simon’s head teacher said “Simon is an extraordinary caretaker who consistently goes above and beyond for our children, staff, and families. He truly embodies the spirit of our Exminster family, believing wholeheartedly in the power of community. Simon works tirelessly, always present and always ready to help with any task, big or small.  His dedication extends to pivotal projects, like his significant contribution to our 'On Cloud Nine' mental health area. The improvements he has made to our school environment are countless, but the positive impact he's had on our entire community is immeasurable. Simon is indispensable – every community needs a Simon!:


Sasha Boult, Deputy Head, SENDCo and DDSL.
Sasha was nominated by her Senior Administrator.

Sasha’s Senior Administrator said “Her roles are all new (within the last 2 years) but what has impressed me is the depth of her caring for each and every one of the children in school. She gives so much of her own time over and above what she does in school to ensure the children in school are safe and supported and puts her own needs aside to ensure theirs are met. She would be a deserving person to receive this.”

Congratulations to all those nominated this term and thank you for all the work you do to support staff, pupils and families across your school communities.

Applications are now open for our Autumn term awards. More information can be found in our monthly newsletter.