At Coombe Dean, our Year 8 students have been taking bold steps toward their futures through the exciting new Aspirations Project 2025. Designed to help students visualise and articulate their educational and career pathways, the project has empowered them to think big, plan ahead, and connect their current learning to long-term goals.

Launched with an inspiring assembly in the Sixth Form Centre and followed by a visit to Plymouth University, the project has given students a real taste of what lies ahead. Weekly tutor sessions have guided them through tools like Unifrog, helping them explore university courses, career options, and the qualifications needed to get there. Each student has created a personalised “Aspirational Plan” mapping out their journey from GCSEs to potential university degrees and careers.

On Wednesday this week, a group of these students had the opportunity to present their work to the WeST Deputy CEO. They were nothing short of outstanding—articulate, enthusiastic, and deeply inspiring. Their confidence and clarity in discussing their aspirations were a testament to the power of the project and the dedication of the staff supporting them.

This pilot initiative has not only reignited the enthusiasm of Year 8 but also laid a strong foundation for their future success. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing how their aspirations evolve in the years to come.