Plymouth school launches 'refreshing' new initiative to make children's dreams come true

The school managed to get one football mad youngster a video message from one of the Lionesses

A Plymouth school has launched a special initiative to make their pupils day. Marine Academy Plymouth, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, launched “Make Their Day" for this term.

Jennifer Brimming, the newly appointed principal at the St Budeaux school is asking parents and carers to send in suggestions on how they can make their child’s day. This year the school is focusing on connection and making sure every young person at MAP feels seen.

The hope is that “Make Their Day” will create a deep sense of belonging at the secondary school and be especially helpful in making sure that new Year 7s feel welcomed and comfortable.

The school is asking parents and carers to email in their suggestions and to keep them a secret from their children. They are then picking a couple every week to enact.

One parent wrote in to say that her daughter loves football and dreams of being a Lioness so the school managed to get her a video message from a Lioness and took her and eight of her friends to play football.

One lucky tutor group had a delivery of ice cream to bring joy to their session and another student received a football signed by Plymouth Argyle players.

Another student had a tasty trip to Mila’s Bakery and one who wanted to spend time with his dad did a brilliant job putting together new desks with him.

One parent said: "The whole 'make their day' concept is so refreshing. Big well done to the teams who have worked on this and everyone involved in making it happen. I can't wait to see what happens next."

Student feedback has been equally as positive with one stating: "I appreciate the teacher for giving me the best day ever."

Another said: "I really like getting to work with my dad- it made me feel really good."

Ofsted praised MAP’s strong focus on good manners, respect, and empathy for others, which has led to a school that is calm and welcoming.

They also believe that excellent attendance is key to success, and work closely with families to ensure students don't miss a day. MAP strives to make every day unmissable for students—with world-class lessons, personal development opportunities, and daily celebrations that simply can't be missed.

Marine Academy Plymouth is holding an open evening on the 19th of September from 5pm to 7pm. Open mornings are being held every Friday at 8.40am in September and October and there is no need to book.

Jennifer Brimming, Principal of Marine Academy Plymouth said: “I am delighted to have launched the 'Make Their Day' initiative this term. At MAP we want to get to know every child really well, but I recognise that parents know their children best, so it seemed like a great idea to ask them what their children might enjoy.

"I want every young person that attends MAP to not only receive a top quality academic education, I also want them to know just how much we care for them as individuals. We are truly aiming to make every day unmissable for every student.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust said: “Everyone at the Ted Wragg Trust is wholly supportive of the “Make Their Day” initiative. We know that schools are more than somewhere children come to learn and MAP is embodying our values of collaboration and selflessness with this idea.”

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