Pool Academy Relaunches Tremendous Thursdays for Prospective Students

Parents Urged to Apply for Places Across Cornwall

Families across Cornwall are being reminded to apply for secondary school places this autumn, and Pool Academy is offering something different to help them make the decision.

The school, part of Athena Learning Trust, has relaunched its ‘Tremendous Thursdays’ this term, designed to move away from traditional open days and give children a more hands-on experience.

📷In the classroom

A Different Kind of Visit

Held every Thursday throughout October, the sessions are carefully planned to help children with the transition to secondary school. Instead of standard tours, pupils take part in activities that introduce them to subjects they will encounter in Year 7, including design technology and PE.

The events also include a scavenger hunt-style quiz, with questions drawn from humanities subjects like history and geography. This takes children across the school, helping them get familiar with the layout in a fun and interactive way.

📷Hands on learning at Pool Academy

Settling In Before Day One

Visitors are also invited to share a meal in the canteen, joined by teachers and support staff. This gives pupils the chance to ask questions in a relaxed setting and become comfortable with the space ahead of starting school.

Principal Mr Nick Ward explained:

“We want every child who visits Pool Academy to feel excited, confident, and welcome as they prepare for the move to secondary school. Tremendous Thursdays are designed to take away the nerves and show just how engaging, supportive, and fun learning here can be. From taster lessons to scavenger hunts and even joining us for a meal, these sessions give pupils and their families a true feel for life at Pool Academy.”

📷Nick Ward and children at a Tremendous Thursday event

How to Get Involved

If you would like to book your child a place at a ‘Tremendous Thursday’ event you can do so here. Alternatively, tours of the school can be booked here.

What Ofsted Said

Pool Academy highlights aspiration, belonging and respect as its core values, with high expectations set for both achievement and conduct.

In their report, Ofsted inspectors noted:

• Pupils feel safe at school and value the strong pastoral support they receive.

• The morning greeting helps pupils to have a positive start to the day.

• Pupils learn in quiet and calm classrooms, from a well-planned curriculum.

📷Cooking up a storm