Welcome to Coombeshead Academy
Coombeshead Academy is a thriving 11-18 school with students joining us from a range of partner primary schools across Newton Abbot and the surrounding area. We also welcome students from other secondary schools into Year 12 where they can study A Levels and vocational Level 3 courses in our successful Sixth Form collaboration with Teign School and South Devon UTC.
Our school forms part of Education South West (ESW) where we work in partnership and collaboration with other schools to build success for young people across South Devon.
Our school vision is based on: Inspiring Excellence
We believe that every young person should have the opportunity to learn in a stimulating and inspirational environment where they can be challenged at the highest levels, as well supported and nurtured, to achieve their very best.
Our core values of Positive Attitude, Endeavour, Achievement, Community and Enrichment underpin all our decisions and interactions with students and families. We offer a broad and balanced academic curriculum. We focus relentlessly on the experiences and outcomes our students receive during their time with us so that they are fully equipped with the qualifications and life experiences needed to be successful adults.
‘Growing your whole self’ by accessing the wider curriculum offer that is available at school is a central element of our school. The whole self is about being a leader, taking part and generally exploiting every opportunity that is offered by the school.
These core values are encapsulated in our motto of the Coombeshead Way
- Turn up and be ready: We want every student here at school every day. We know that good attendance guarantees good outcomes and therefore better life chances to get the jobs they want in the future. By being ready to learn with the right attitude and the right equipment no learning time is wasted and the progress our young people make every lesson can be maximised.
- Work hard: By putting in 100% effort every lesson, every day and never giving up even when facing challenges with new learning and with more difficult concepts.
- Be nice: We want all our young people to focus on treating each other with respect and tolerance as well as allowing everyone to learn and excel in every lesson
We have a caring, disciplined, family atmosphere. All our students are known and treated as individuals. We have high standards, and we place particular emphasis on school uniform 11-16, exemplary behaviour, attendance and punctuality.
We value all our staff, and we ensure their skills and knowledge are second to none through a comprehensive professional learning programme.
We look forward to welcoming you to Coombeshead Academy.
Helen Coulson, Headteacher
Latest News
View allGCSE Success: Coombeshead Academy Students Celebrate Results Day
Students at Coombeshead Academy were in exceptionally high spirits today as they collected their GCSE results (Thursday 21st August), marking the end of an important chapter and the start of new and exciting opportunities.
After months of dedication, hard work, non-stop revision, exams and anticipation, students finally received the results of their hard work. This year saw an exceptional performance across a wide range of subjects, this reflects a continuing growth in the strength of academic success at Coombeshead Academy.
Some achievements from Coombeshead students are as follows:
Reuben Feasby- Reuben's fantastic character proved that dedication and hard work gets results. Reuben achieved 2 grade 8s, 4 grade 7s, 2 grade 6s and 1 grade 5. Reuben is staying at Coombeshead next year to study Maths, Chemistry and Geography.
Cj Chillcott- CJ has achieved an amazing set of results by getting a grade 9, 4 grade 8s, 1 grade 7 and 3 grade 6s. CJ is joining Coombeshead 6th form in September to study Performing Arts, Graphics and Psychology
Oli Gore- Has had a huge contribution to Coombeshead over the last 5 years and has matched this with a very impressive set of grades. He achieved 8 of the very best grade 9s and one grade 8.
Kate Sampson, who really added to the Coombeshead community over the years, achieved extremely well by achieving 7 grade 9s and 2 grade 8s.
Joe Mwaro- Joe achieved 8 grade 9s and one grade 8. In September he is pursuing his playing career at Plymouth Argyle and staff are sure that they will see more of him in the future.
The school continues to have a strong focus on the arts and is launching a new Level 2 CREATE course, starting in September 2025, designed to provide a foundation in art and design for students not yet ready for Level 3 qualifications. This course will cover various artistic disciplines and include a study skills program to prepare students for future academic challenges.
Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy, said:
“This is a group of students who showed real grit, determination, and perseverance. Through early mornings, extra sessions—‘lesson 0’ and ‘lesson 6’—walking-talking mocks and countless revision hours, they have earned these results. It wasn’t always easy, but their commitment has truly paid off. I’m incredibly proud of each and every one of them. A huge thank you also goes to our brilliant staff and supportive parents and carers who helped guide these young people to success.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:
“GCSE results day is a milestone in every young person’s journey, and I’m delighted to see the students at Coombeshead Academy succeed. These excellent results are a testament to the effort and energy put in by both students and staff. I wish all our young people the very best as they move on to their next stage, whether that’s sixth form, college, apprenticeships or training.”
GCSE Success: Coombeshead Academy Students Celebrate Results Day Students at Coombeshead Academy were in exceptionally high spirits today as they collected their GCSE results (Thursday 21st August), marking the end of an important chapter and the start of new and exciting opportunities. After months of dedication, hard work, non-stop revision, exams and anticipation, students finally received the results of their hard work. This year saw an exceptional performance across a wide range of subjects, this reflects a continuing growth in the strength of academic success at Coombeshead Academy. Some achievements from Coombeshead students are as follows: Reuben Feasby- Reuben's fantastic character proved that dedication and hard work gets results. Reuben achieved 2 grade 8s, 4 grade 7s, 2 grade 6s and 1 grade 5. Reuben is staying at Coombeshead next year to study Maths, Chemistry and Geography. Cj Chillcott- CJ has achieved an amazing set of results by getting a grade 9, 4 grade 8s, 1 grade 7 and 3 grade 6s. CJ is joining Coombeshead 6th form in September to study Performing Arts, Graphics and Psychology Oli Gore- Has had a huge contribution to Coombeshead over the last 5 years and has matched this with a very impressive set of grades. He achieved 8 of the very best grade 9s and one grade 8. Kate Sampson, who really added to the Coombeshead community over the years, achieved extremely well by achieving 7 grade 9s and 2 grade 8s. Joe Mwaro- Joe achieved 8 grade 9s and one grade 8. In September he is pursuing his playing career at Plymouth Argyle and staff are sure that they will see more of him in the future. The school continues to have a strong focus on the arts and is launching a new Level 2 CREATE course, starting in September 2025, designed to provide a foundation in art and design for students not yet ready for Level 3 qualifications. This course will cover various artistic disciplines and include a study skills program to prepare students for future academic challenges. Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy, said:“This is a group of students who showed real grit, determination, and perseverance. Through early mornings, extra sessions—‘lesson 0’ and ‘lesson 6’—walking-talking mocks and countless revision hours, they have earned these results. It wasn’t always easy, but their commitment has truly paid off. I’m incredibly proud of each and every one of them. A huge thank you also goes to our brilliant staff and supportive parents and carers who helped guide these young people to success.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:“GCSE results day is a milestone in every young person’s journey, and I’m delighted to see the students at Coombeshead Academy succeed. These excellent results are a testament to the effort and energy put in by both students and staff. I wish all our young people the very best as they move on to their next stage, whether that’s sixth form, college, apprenticeships or training.”
A-Level Success: Coombeshead Students Take the Next Step Towards Bright Futures
Students from Coombeshead Academy have been picking up their A Level exam results this morning.
At Coombeshead Academy, students are moving on to a wide range of destinations from Universities including the Universities of Brighton, Exeter, Reading, Gloucestershire and the Liverpool Media Academy.
Thomas Malcolm’s consistently dazzling performances in school productions also carried through to his results as he earned 3 Distinctions across Music & Performing Arts. Thomas is now set to study Musical Theatre at Leeds Conservatoire.
Nicole Fordham’s hard work over her time at Coombeshead was justly rewarded with a Distinction and 2 A grades. Nicole is now heading to Exeter to study Geography.
Mason O’ Connell has applied himself diligently, securing 4 A levels in Geography, Biology, Maths and English; including 2 A grades in Geography and Biology. Mason is headed off to the University of Bristol to study Geography with a year studying abroad!
Coombeshead Sixth Form College continues to grow in popularity, offering a broad range of academic and vocational courses delivered by experienced teachers in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Students from across Newton Abbot and the surrounding area choose Coombeshead for its excellent results, strong pastoral care, and impressive destinations, whether that’s top universities, apprenticeships, or skilled employment. With thriving arts and sports opportunities, a busy enrichment programme including Duke of Edinburgh and Ten Tors, and strong links to higher education and local employers, Coombeshead Sixth Form equips every student to believe in themselves and succeed.
Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy said:
“We are so proud of our Sixth Form students and everything they’ve achieved. Their results are a testament to their resilience, determination, and the strong relationships they’ve built with our dedicated staff. Whether they’re heading to university, apprenticeships or straight into employment, we know they’ll go on to do amazing things.”
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:
“Congratulations to all the students at Coombeshead Academy receiving their A-Level results today. It’s a day that marks both an achievement and a new beginning. These outcomes reflect the commitment of both students and staff, and I wish everyone continued success in their next steps.”
A-Level Success: Coombeshead Students Take the Next Step Towards Bright FuturesStudents from Coombeshead Academy have been picking up their A Level exam results this morning. At Coombeshead Academy, students are moving on to a wide range of destinations from Universities including the Universities of Brighton, Exeter, Reading, Gloucestershire and the Liverpool Media Academy. Thomas Malcolm’s consistently dazzling performances in school productions also carried through to his results as he earned 3 Distinctions across Music & Performing Arts. Thomas is now set to study Musical Theatre at Leeds Conservatoire. Nicole Fordham’s hard work over her time at Coombeshead was justly rewarded with a Distinction and 2 A grades. Nicole is now heading to Exeter to study Geography. Mason O’ Connell has applied himself diligently, securing 4 A levels in Geography, Biology, Maths and English; including 2 A grades in Geography and Biology. Mason is headed off to the University of Bristol to study Geography with a year studying abroad! Coombeshead Sixth Form College continues to grow in popularity, offering a broad range of academic and vocational courses delivered by experienced teachers in a supportive and inclusive environment. Students from across Newton Abbot and the surrounding area choose Coombeshead for its excellent results, strong pastoral care, and impressive destinations, whether that’s top universities, apprenticeships, or skilled employment. With thriving arts and sports opportunities, a busy enrichment programme including Duke of Edinburgh and Ten Tors, and strong links to higher education and local employers, Coombeshead Sixth Form equips every student to believe in themselves and succeed. Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy said:“We are so proud of our Sixth Form students and everything they’ve achieved. Their results are a testament to their resilience, determination, and the strong relationships they’ve built with our dedicated staff. Whether they’re heading to university, apprenticeships or straight into employment, we know they’ll go on to do amazing things.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:“Congratulations to all the students at Coombeshead Academy receiving their A-Level results today. It’s a day that marks both an achievement and a new beginning. These outcomes reflect the commitment of both students and staff, and I wish everyone continued success in their next steps.”
South West Art Teachers Unite to Shape the Future of Arts Education
Over 50 educators from across the region gathered in Exeter this month for the first-ever South West Art Teachers Conference, hosted by Coombeshead Academy, part of Education South West and the South West Institute for Teaching (SWIFT), marking a bold new chapter for art and design education in the region.
Held at the Phoenix Arts Centre the landmark event brought together passionate teachers from primary, secondary and alternative provision settings, united by a shared goal: to champion creativity, connection and collective advocacy in the face of growing pressures on the arts.
Organised by Sam Eyre, Head of CREATE at Coombeshead Academy the event built on a rich legacy of collaboration, evolving from the long-running Devon Art Teachers’ Conference, which has been going for over 15 years, into a region-wide movement. The idea behind the evolution is to help grow the professional community and the sharing of practices within SWIFT.
Highlights included a keynote from renowned artist David Shrigley, hands-on workshops, and an exhibition of the powerful CODEX Project, an inspiring partnership between Sidmouth College, Sidmouth School of Art and local artists, exploring identity and storytelling through visual art.
Educators left the day energised, empowered, and ready to amplify the value of the arts for the young people they serve. The South West Art Teachers Conference is set to return in 2026, with organisers hoping to grow the network even further. For more information or to get involved, contact sam.eyre@coombesheadacademy.org.uk
Sam Eyre, organiser and Head of CREATE at Coombeshead Academy, said:"We wanted to create a space where teachers could come together not just to learn new techniques, but to feel inspired, supported, and valued. The passion in the room was incredible, this is just the beginning of something powerful for arts education in the South West."
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:
"This conference is a brilliant example of how we can lead and innovate across our region. Art and design matter deeply to our students and our communities, and we are proud to be part of a network that is championing creativity, expression and opportunity at every level."
South West Art Teachers Unite to Shape the Future of Arts Education Over 50 educators from across the region gathered in Exeter this month for the first-ever South West Art Teachers Conference, hosted by Coombeshead Academy, part of Education South West and the South West Institute for Teaching (SWIFT), marking a bold new chapter for art and design education in the region. Held at the Phoenix Arts Centre the landmark event brought together passionate teachers from primary, secondary and alternative provision settings, united by a shared goal: to champion creativity, connection and collective advocacy in the face of growing pressures on the arts. Organised by Sam Eyre, Head of CREATE at Coombeshead Academy the event built on a rich legacy of collaboration, evolving from the long-running Devon Art Teachers’ Conference, which has been going for over 15 years, into a region-wide movement. The idea behind the evolution is to help grow the professional community and the sharing of practices within SWIFT. Highlights included a keynote from renowned artist David Shrigley, hands-on workshops, and an exhibition of the powerful CODEX Project, an inspiring partnership between Sidmouth College, Sidmouth School of Art and local artists, exploring identity and storytelling through visual art. Educators left the day energised, empowered, and ready to amplify the value of the arts for the young people they serve. The South West Art Teachers Conference is set to return in 2026, with organisers hoping to grow the network even further. For more information or to get involved, contact sam.eyre@coombesheadacademy.org.uk Sam Eyre, organiser and Head of CREATE at Coombeshead Academy, said:"We wanted to create a space where teachers could come together not just to learn new techniques, but to feel inspired, supported, and valued. The passion in the room was incredible, this is just the beginning of something powerful for arts education in the South West." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: "This conference is a brilliant example of how we can lead and innovate across our region. Art and design matter deeply to our students and our communities, and we are proud to be part of a network that is championing creativity, expression and opportunity at every level."