STUDENTS from all year groups at Tavistock College enjoyed their annual inspiration day recently, under the themes of leadership and teambuilding, being responsible and making the right decisions.

Usual lessons went out of the window, as students enjoyed the entertaining and thought-provoking day.

Assistant principal Gary King said: 'This is a valuable way to raise the aspirations of our students, from the youngest children in Year 7 who are just starting out in their secondary education to those nearing school-leaving age in the sixth form.'

Sixth formers took part in workshops on practical matters such as cooking on a budget, DIY and self-defence, and younger students enjoyed storytelling sessions with Jacolly Puppets that tackled issues including road safety and sustainability.

Trust was in demand when blindfolded Year 10 students had to negotiate an obstacle course via instructions called out by their classmates.

The school radio station was manned for the day, with budding DJs carrying out live reports and interviews as well as playing music.

The college was pleased to welcome a number of high profile speakers chosen for their relevance to the themes of the day.

These included Martin Dawes, former BBC correspondent now adviser to UNICEF, landmine survivor Ben McBean, Major General David Hook, CBE, Royal Marines who have most recently served in Afghanistan, engineer and STEM ambassador, Peter Shrubshall, and jungle warfare instructor Spanner Manley.

College principal Helen Salmon said: 'This is the second year that we have held Inspiration Day and the event has proved so popular and motivating for students that it will no doubt be a regular fixture in the school calendar for future years.'