The eye-catching 2.4-metre-tall lighthouses, each individually designed and decorated by talented artists and sponsored by generous local businesses, were displayed in prominent locations across Plymouth. The trail created a fantastic free attraction for people of all ages to enjoy.

Our involvement began last year when we expressed an interest in taking part in this exciting community art project. In March 2026, Miss Main attended an inspirational event that showcased ideas and designs for the smaller lighthouses. Just one week later, the project was launched to our students, and four Year 10 students were selected to lead the design process. (Please see the photos showcasing their designs.)

Each student took responsibility for designing a different tier of the lighthouse, making it a truly collaborative project. The creative direction was driven entirely by the students, with Miss Main overseeing after-school sessions and, most importantly, supplying plenty of sweet treats to keep everyone motivated!

The students dedicated a significant amount of their own time to the project, even coming into school during the April half-term holiday to ensure the lighthouse was completed before the submission deadline of 22nd April.

During the final stages of the project, the students felt that something was missing from the base of the lighthouse. As a result, every tutor group was invited to contribute a single word that they felt represented Coombe Dean School. These words were incorporated into the final design, making the lighthouse a true reflection of our school community.

As well as creating the lighthouse, staff also took on fundraising challenges to support the project. Miss Main swam an incredible 44,000 metres, raising £520 through sponsorship. Meanwhile, Mr Whitehead completed a remarkable 115-mile bike ride from Coombe Dean School to Lizard Point Lighthouse, raising an additional £637. Together, these fantastic efforts raised £1,157, demonstrating the dedication and community spirit that made the project such a success.

On 3rd June, our students and staff were given the exciting opportunity to take a sneak peek at all the completed lighthouses before they went on public display across Plymouth. Seeing the incredible range of artistic designs up close was a memorable experience and made us even more proud to see our own lighthouse featured alongside so many fantastic creations.

Following the public trail, we were delighted that our lighthouse was also showcased at The Box Museum, giving even more visitors the opportunity to admire the creativity and hard work of our students. Seeing our design displayed alongside other incredible lighthouse creations was a proud moment for everyone involved.

We are extremely proud of the finished lighthouse and of the creativity, commitment, and teamwork shown by our students throughout the project. The project not only showcased artistic talent but also highlighted the strength of our school community, with students, staff, and tutor groups all playing a part in creating something truly special.

Total fundraising raised: £1,157

Fundraising achievements: 44,000 metres swum, 115 miles cycled, and one amazing lighthouse created by our talented Year 10 students.

The trail came to an exciting conclusion on 1st October with a thrilling auction of the lighthouse sculptures. Thanks to the incredible generosity of bidders and supporters, the auction raised an astonishing £200,000. This remarkable total is the equivalent of providing compassionate end-of-life care at home for more than 200 patients and their families, highlighting the lasting impact of the Guiding Lights Project and the difference it will make within our community.