Welcome to Dartmouth Academy
At Dartmouth Academy, our guiding mission is simple yet powerful: Be your best self. We believe that our future successes are built on the work we do today, and every member of our community: staff, pupils, and families is committed to this shared purpose.
As an all-through Academy, we value the strength of long-lasting relationships with our pupils and their families. Our place at the heart of the community allows us to know every child personally, creating a nurturing environment where they feel safe, valued, and supported.
Our core values of courage, compassion, and ambition shape everything we do. We encourage our pupils to be courageous in their learning, to show compassion in their interactions, and to pursue their goals with ambition and determination. These values are embedded in both our aspirational curriculum and the way we relate to each other every day.
We know that children flourish when they are truly seen and supported. Our staff create academically rich learning experiences while recognising and responding to the individual barriers each child may face. This approach ensures every pupil is given the opportunity to thrive both academically and personally.
From the moment pupils join us in the Early Years Foundation Stage, we instil the belief that success is not defined by ability alone, but by the effort and resilience they bring to their learning. This belief is captured in the mantra we live by: Be Your Best Self.
Through a united effort between home and school, and with our unwavering commitment to courage, compassion, and ambition, we help every child become the best version of themselves—today and for the future they are building.
Paul Girardot
Principal
Latest News
View allDartmouth Nursery Pupils Enjoy Memorable Visit to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm
Children from the nursery at Dartmouth Academy recently enjoyed an exciting educational visit to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, where they had the opportunity to get up close to a variety of friendly animals.
Throughout the day, the children met goats, chickens and pigs, learning more about the different animals and their habitats. One of the highlights of the visit was spending time in the popular ‘Pet Corner’, where pupils were able to make some new furry and feathered friends.
The trip provided a wonderful opportunity for children to develop their understanding of the natural world through hands on experiences. The visit forms part of Dartmouth Academy nursery's commitment to providing enriching experiences that support children's learning, development and wellbeing.
Dartmouth Academy nursery also welcomes local families to its popular ‘Stay & Play’ sessions, which take place from 1.30pm to 2.30pm on selected Tuesdays throughout the term. Upcoming sessions are on the 23rd June, 30th June and 7th July.
Open to children aged two to four and their parents or carers, the sessions provide a safe and welcoming environment where children can enjoy toys, activities and sensory play designed to support early development.
Alongside opportunities for little ones to play, learn and make new friends, the sessions also give parents and carers the chance to connect with other local families in a friendly and supportive setting. No booking is required, with families invited to simply drop in and join the fun.
Jennifer Tierney, Primary Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
"Trips like this provide wonderful opportunities for our nursery children to explore the world around them through hands on experiences. The children were excited to meet so many different animals, and it was fantastic to see their curiosity and enthusiasm throughout the day. It was a memorable visit that sparked plenty of conversations and learning back at school.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:
"The early years are such an important stage in a child's development, and experiences like this stay with children long after the visit has ended. Meeting animals, exploring a new environment and learning through play helps build confidence and communication skills.”
Dartmouth Nursery Pupils Enjoy Memorable Visit to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm Children from the nursery at Dartmouth Academy recently enjoyed an exciting educational visit to Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, where they had the opportunity to get up close to a variety of friendly animals. Throughout the day, the children met goats, chickens and pigs, learning more about the different animals and their habitats. One of the highlights of the visit was spending time in the popular ‘Pet Corner’, where pupils were able to make some new furry and feathered friends. The trip provided a wonderful opportunity for children to develop their understanding of the natural world through hands on experiences. The visit forms part of Dartmouth Academy nursery's commitment to providing enriching experiences that support children's learning, development and wellbeing. Dartmouth Academy nursery also welcomes local families to its popular ‘Stay & Play’ sessions, which take place from 1.30pm to 2.30pm on selected Tuesdays throughout the term. Upcoming sessions are on the 23rd June, 30th June and 7th July. Open to children aged two to four and their parents or carers, the sessions provide a safe and welcoming environment where children can enjoy toys, activities and sensory play designed to support early development. Alongside opportunities for little ones to play, learn and make new friends, the sessions also give parents and carers the chance to connect with other local families in a friendly and supportive setting. No booking is required, with families invited to simply drop in and join the fun. Jennifer Tierney, Primary Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: "Trips like this provide wonderful opportunities for our nursery children to explore the world around them through hands on experiences. The children were excited to meet so many different animals, and it was fantastic to see their curiosity and enthusiasm throughout the day. It was a memorable visit that sparked plenty of conversations and learning back at school.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said: "The early years are such an important stage in a child's development, and experiences like this stay with children long after the visit has ended. Meeting animals, exploring a new environment and learning through play helps build confidence and communication skills.”
Dartmouth Academy Pupils Earn Sailing Certificates After 102-Mile Ocean Adventure
Pupils at Dartmouth Academy have returned from an unforgettable sailing expedition after completing a 102-mile voyage aboard Prolific with the Ocean Youth Trust.
Fifteen year 9 students embarked on the adventure taking part in an intensive week of sail training despite challenging weather conditions across the Solent. During the voyage, pupils learned essential sailing skills including steering, winch handling, passage planning and radio communication, while navigating strong winds of up to 33 knots.
The group travelled from Southampton to Cowes, Gosport and Yarmouth, experiencing overnight stays on board and taking responsibility for key elements of the journey. The trip culminated in a night pilotage exercise back to Southampton, where pupils safely navigated busy shipping routes and challenging conditions.
Throughout the week, students demonstrated teamwork and determination, with every participant successfully achieving their RYA Start Yachting certificate. For many pupils, the expedition marked their first time away from home and outside Devon, making the achievement even more significant.
The school has thanked Ocean Youth Trust for delivering the experience and the Royal Dart Youth Sailing Trust (RDYST) for fully funding the expedition, enabling pupils to access opportunities they may otherwise never have experienced.
Dartmouth Academy continues to work closely with RDYST to provide sailing and water-based activities that broaden horizons, build confidence and enrich the lives of pupils across the school.
Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
“This voyage was an incredible opportunity for our pupils to develop confidence, independence and teamwork in a completely new environment. They showed tremendous courage and maturity throughout the week, particularly in such challenging sailing conditions, and we are immensely proud of everything they achieved.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:
“Experiences like this can have a lasting impact on young people. Beyond the sailing skills, our pupils developed resilience, communication and self-belief while stepping far outside their comfort zones. We are extremely grateful to Ocean Youth Trust and RDYST for helping to make such transformational opportunities possible for our students.”
Dartmouth Academy Pupils Earn Sailing Certificates After 102-Mile Ocean Adventure Pupils at Dartmouth Academy have returned from an unforgettable sailing expedition after completing a 102-mile voyage aboard Prolific with the Ocean Youth Trust. Fifteen year 9 students embarked on the adventure taking part in an intensive week of sail training despite challenging weather conditions across the Solent. During the voyage, pupils learned essential sailing skills including steering, winch handling, passage planning and radio communication, while navigating strong winds of up to 33 knots. The group travelled from Southampton to Cowes, Gosport and Yarmouth, experiencing overnight stays on board and taking responsibility for key elements of the journey. The trip culminated in a night pilotage exercise back to Southampton, where pupils safely navigated busy shipping routes and challenging conditions. Throughout the week, students demonstrated teamwork and determination, with every participant successfully achieving their RYA Start Yachting certificate. For many pupils, the expedition marked their first time away from home and outside Devon, making the achievement even more significant. The school has thanked Ocean Youth Trust for delivering the experience and the Royal Dart Youth Sailing Trust (RDYST) for fully funding the expedition, enabling pupils to access opportunities they may otherwise never have experienced. Dartmouth Academy continues to work closely with RDYST to provide sailing and water-based activities that broaden horizons, build confidence and enrich the lives of pupils across the school. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “This voyage was an incredible opportunity for our pupils to develop confidence, independence and teamwork in a completely new environment. They showed tremendous courage and maturity throughout the week, particularly in such challenging sailing conditions, and we are immensely proud of everything they achieved.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said: “Experiences like this can have a lasting impact on young people. Beyond the sailing skills, our pupils developed resilience, communication and self-belief while stepping far outside their comfort zones. We are extremely grateful to Ocean Youth Trust and RDYST for helping to make such transformational opportunities possible for our students.”
Dartmouth Pupil Leaders Take the Lead on Climate Change Awareness
Pupils at Dartmouth Academy recently demonstrated their commitment to the environment by leading a school-wide assembly on climate change. The initiative was entirely student-led, giving young leaders the opportunity to raise awareness and inspire their peers.
During the assembly, pupils explored the causes and impacts of climate change, shared practical steps for sustainable living, and encouraged the school community to take action in their daily lives. The presentations were both informative and engaging, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Staff praised the pupils for their initiative and passion, noting that the assembly reflects the school’s ongoing dedication to encouraging student empowerment, environmental responsibility, and active citizenship.
By putting students at the forefront of discussions on global issues, Dartmouth Academy continues to nurture informed, proactive young people ready to make a positive difference in the world.
Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
"We are incredibly proud of our pupils for taking the initiative to lead this assembly. Their passion and commitment to environmental issues is inspiring, and it demonstrates the positive impact young people can have when given the platform to lead."
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:
"It’s fantastic to see student leadership in action. The assembly not only raised awareness about climate change but also empowered pupils to take responsibility for their communities and the planet. This is exactly the kind of proactive citizenship we aim to nurture across all our schools."
Dartmouth Pupil Leaders Take the Lead on Climate Change Awareness Pupils at Dartmouth Academy recently demonstrated their commitment to the environment by leading a school-wide assembly on climate change. The initiative was entirely student-led, giving young leaders the opportunity to raise awareness and inspire their peers. During the assembly, pupils explored the causes and impacts of climate change, shared practical steps for sustainable living, and encouraged the school community to take action in their daily lives. The presentations were both informative and engaging, showcasing creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills. Staff praised the pupils for their initiative and passion, noting that the assembly reflects the school’s ongoing dedication to encouraging student empowerment, environmental responsibility, and active citizenship. By putting students at the forefront of discussions on global issues, Dartmouth Academy continues to nurture informed, proactive young people ready to make a positive difference in the world. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: "We are incredibly proud of our pupils for taking the initiative to lead this assembly. Their passion and commitment to environmental issues is inspiring, and it demonstrates the positive impact young people can have when given the platform to lead." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said: "It’s fantastic to see student leadership in action. The assembly not only raised awareness about climate change but also empowered pupils to take responsibility for their communities and the planet. This is exactly the kind of proactive citizenship we aim to nurture across all our schools."
Local Restaurateur Inspires Dartmouth Pupils
Dartmouth Academy recently welcomed special guest Mitch Tonks, acclaimed chef and owner of The Seahorse and Rockfish in the town, to share his career journey.
Mitch spoke candidly about his path from leaving school to building a successful career in the restaurant industry, offering insights and inspiration to young people considering their future options.
Over a 25-year career as a fishmonger, chef, restaurateur, and CEO, Mitch has become a leading voice for British seafood, sustainability, and hospitality. He is passionate about connecting people with local, sustainable seafood, supporting the UK fishing industry, and championing the role of restaurants as community spaces.
Mitch has also written seven cookbooks, appeared on national TV, and launched innovative initiatives including the Rockfish online seafood market and a range of tinned British fish. He is co-founder of the Devon Environment Foundation and actively mentors the next generation of chefs, helping young people see how passion, dedication, and creativity can shape a successful and meaningful career.
Staff at Dartmouth Academy were particularly proud to host Mitch, whose children previously attended the school, and to offer students a chance to engage directly with someone who has achieved success through passion and perseverance.
The visit formed part of the school’s ongoing commitment to personal development, employability, and community connection, ensuring every pupil is empowered to thrive in the future.
Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said:
"It was inspiring to see our students so engaged with Mitch’s story. Hearing directly from someone who has followed their passion, worked hard, and given back to the community is exactly the kind of experience that motivates our pupils to think about their own futures."
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:
"Visits like this show the importance of connecting education with real-world experiences. Mitch’s career demonstrates how creativity, resilience, and commitment can lead to remarkable achievements, and we’re proud to bring these opportunities to our students."
Local Restaurateur Inspires Dartmouth Pupils Dartmouth Academy recently welcomed special guest Mitch Tonks, acclaimed chef and owner of The Seahorse and Rockfish in the town, to share his career journey. Mitch spoke candidly about his path from leaving school to building a successful career in the restaurant industry, offering insights and inspiration to young people considering their future options. Over a 25-year career as a fishmonger, chef, restaurateur, and CEO, Mitch has become a leading voice for British seafood, sustainability, and hospitality. He is passionate about connecting people with local, sustainable seafood, supporting the UK fishing industry, and championing the role of restaurants as community spaces. Mitch has also written seven cookbooks, appeared on national TV, and launched innovative initiatives including the Rockfish online seafood market and a range of tinned British fish. He is co-founder of the Devon Environment Foundation and actively mentors the next generation of chefs, helping young people see how passion, dedication, and creativity can shape a successful and meaningful career. Staff at Dartmouth Academy were particularly proud to host Mitch, whose children previously attended the school, and to offer students a chance to engage directly with someone who has achieved success through passion and perseverance. The visit formed part of the school’s ongoing commitment to personal development, employability, and community connection, ensuring every pupil is empowered to thrive in the future. Paul Girardot, Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: "It was inspiring to see our students so engaged with Mitch’s story. Hearing directly from someone who has followed their passion, worked hard, and given back to the community is exactly the kind of experience that motivates our pupils to think about their own futures." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said: "Visits like this show the importance of connecting education with real-world experiences. Mitch’s career demonstrates how creativity, resilience, and commitment can lead to remarkable achievements, and we’re proud to bring these opportunities to our students."