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Marathon twist as two Daisys run for same cause miles apart

Two women, one name, and one extraordinary goal: to run 26.2 miles for the same cause close to their hearts. In a remarkable coincidence, Daisy French from Newton Abbot in Devon and Daisy Greville Williams from Midlothian in Scotland, who have never met, are both running the 2026 London Marathon on Sunday 26 April for the charity Farm Africa, inspired by the same deeply personal motivation: to honour their beloved grandfathers.

Living 447 miles apart, their stories are uniquely their own, yet powerfully connected by shared values, family legacy and a commitment to supporting smallholder farmers in eastern Africa.

In April 2025, two women with the same name, living at opposite ends of the UK, both applied to run the 2026 London Marathon for Farm Africa.

Daisy and Daisy had never met. Yet both were inspired by their beloved grandfathers.

Daisy French, from Newton Abbot, had applied for the London Marathon ballot for several years without success. Determined to secure a place in 2026, she decided to run for a charity close to her heart. The choice was simple: Farm Africa, a charity that supports farmers in eastern Africa to improve the quality, quantity and value of their produce, so that they can support their families with more resilient livelihoods.

“My grandfather Brian Marnham spent years campaigning and spreading awareness about Farm Africa and even went on a trip to Ethiopia to see the work the charity does first-hand,” Daisy explained. “Now, after my parents have taken over the family farm and we are more present in the farming community, I want to continue his legacy.” she continued.  

Meanwhile, 447 miles north, Daisy Greville Williams from Midlothian had her own deeply personal reason for applying to run.

Last year, her much-loved grandpa sadly passed away. “Farm Africa was a cause incredibly close to his heart – he donated every month and was a long-time supporter. He spent many years living in sub-Saharan Africa and had a deep love for the continent, its people and its animals. Supporting Farm Africa was his way of staying connected to a place he cared for so deeply.” explained Daisy.

When he passed away, Daisy and her family chose to collect donations for Farm Africa at his funeral, honouring his memory and ensuring his legacy of generosity would live on. Now, Daisy is taking that tribute one step further by running the London Marathon in his name.

Two women. The same name. The same race. The same charity. And the same motivation – to honour their grandads and support smallholder farmers in eastern Africa.

It’s a remarkable coincidence, and a powerful reminder that no matter where you are in the world, shared values and shared love can bring people together for an extraordinary cause.

Ofsted praise for nursery where babies feel safe and valued

“A warm and welcoming environment, where children feel safe, included and valued” has been highlighted in a positive inspection of a small Devon childcare setting where inspectors found youngsters thriving through sensory play, outdoor exploration and close relationships with staff.

Early Worlies, based at East Worlington Primary School in East Worlington, cares for babies and toddlers aged from 0 to 2. The setting, which has nine places and is run by Chulmleigh Academy Trust, was inspected on Monday, January 19 after registering with Ofsted in December 2024. Inspectors found the provision meets the expected standard across all areas, with safeguarding requirements also met.

The report highlights how children are developing key early skills through carefully planned activities and strong support from staff.

Inspectors said: “Children acquire age- and stage-appropriate skills across all areas of learning and development, ensuring they are well prepared for subsequent educational phases, including transitions to nursery rooms for older children. Effective collaboration between staff and external professionals supports well planned and carefully managed transitions.”

Language and communication development was also noted as a strength. According to the report: “Children build strong language, communication and physical skills that prepare them well for the future. Babies smile and babble confidently, while young toddlers begin using single words with ease. All children make progress from where they started, including those who need extra support or have special educational needs and/or disabilities.”

Inspectors observed staff supporting children as they reach key developmental milestones. “Staff give individual support to help children reach important milestones. Babies build strength as they learn to sit independently and enjoy playing with balls alongside others. Toddlers show creativity as they make marks with chalk and explore music by listening and responding to different sounds.”

Behaviour and attitudes were also praised, with staff creating a calm and nurturing learning environment. The report notes that leaders and staff maintain high expectations, helping children to develop curiosity and enthusiasm for learning from a very young age.

Inspectors wrote: “Leaders and staff have high expectations for children’s behaviour and attitudes to learning. This helps create a calm, caring and positive environment. Because of this, children are curious, interested and enjoy learning from an early age.”

Staff also help children understand kindness and respect through everyday interactions. The report explains: “Staff clearly teach children about kindness and respect. For example, when children find it hard to share, adults calmly explain why sharing and taking turns matter. This support helps children learn positive behaviour and toddlers are often seen sharing toys, such as sticks found outdoors, with their friends.”

Children’s wellbeing is central to the setting’s approach, with routines and policies designed to support their emotional and physical development. Inspectors said: “Staff create a warm and welcoming environment, where children feel safe, included and valued. This helps children feel confident, calm and happy as they play and learn each day.”

Outdoor learning also plays an important role in the nursery’s daily routine. According to the report: “Children have daily opportunities to play and learn outdoors. Outdoor learning supports children’s physical development, helps them build resilience and improves their overall wellbeing.”

The curriculum was described as ambitious and carefully planned, with staff demonstrating strong knowledge of early years development. Inspectors highlighted how teaching supports all children, including those with additional needs.

The report states: “Teaching is of a high quality and supports all children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, children involved with social care, and those who face barriers to learning. For example, children with speech delays receive targeted support that helps them grow in confidence when speaking.”

Strong partnerships with parents and carers were also emphasised. Inspectors noted that staff work closely with families to ensure routines such as sleep schedules, introducing solid foods and personal care are consistent between home and the setting.

Leaders and staff were praised for their commitment to maintaining high standards and supporting one another through ongoing training and supervision. The report says: “There is a strong culture of reflection and learning, and staff are encouraged to develop their skills and knowledge through ongoing training.”

Inspectors identified areas where the setting could improve further. Leaders were advised to enhance opportunities for babies and toddlers to practise physical skills such as walking, and to expand the teaching of mathematics so that children develop a deeper understanding of early number concepts.

A spokesperson for Worlies said: “We are delighted by our recent OFSTED report, the setting continues to grow and flourish. We are grateful for the continued support of our families and we are looking forward to meeting new families on our upcoming open day this term, please look out for the date.”

Rural school wins praise for inclusive and supportive environment

“A welcoming start to the school day” where pupils “are kind and respectful towards one another” has been highlighted in a positive inspection of a Devon primary school.

Inspectors said Witheridge Church of England Primary Academy has built a calm and inclusive environment where pupils feel safe, behave well and benefit from a wide range of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. The small rural school, in Fore Street, has 127 pupils on roll.

In their report following an inspection on Tuesday, January 13, inspectors said safeguarding standards are met and leaders have created “an open and positive culture of safeguarding”.

The report notes: “Staff greet pupils and their families warmly each morning, helping to create a welcoming start to the school day. School and trust leaders set high expectations for every pupil and foster a strongly inclusive culture. Staff know each pupil’s needs well.”

As a result, inspectors found that pupils who face barriers to learning are quickly identified and supported.

The report says: “Pupils are kept safe. They behave well, and the school has a calm, purposeful atmosphere. Attendance is high, reflecting pupils’ enjoyment of school and their commitment to learning. There are no incidents of bullying.”

Inspectors praised the school’s approach to inclusion, highlighting how leaders work closely with families and the wider community. Staff hold “high expectations for what all pupils can achieve, regardless of their background or starting point”.

Leaders also run initiatives such as coffee mornings for parents and baby and toddler sessions to build relationships with families and identify potential barriers to learning early. Support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities was also highlighted as a strength.

The report states: “With support from the trust’s experienced special educational needs team and external agencies, staff are trained to identify pupils’ needs swiftly. Staff use a clear, step-by-step approach to identifying and meeting pupils’ needs effectively.”

Inspectors said vulnerable pupils benefit from tailored activities designed to build confidence and resilience, including outdoor initiatives and residential experiences.

“Vulnerable pupils benefit from tailored initiatives such as confidence-building outdoor activities, including surfing, and specialised overnight residentials,” the report says. “These opportunities help pupils who are vulnerable or who have social, emotional and mental health needs to develop confidence and resilience.”

Personal development at the school was also rated highly, with inspectors pointing to a wide range of enrichment opportunities.

These include residential visits, cultural trips and trust-wide activities that encourage collaboration between pupils from different schools. Inspectors noted that experiences such as visiting the Houses of Parliament and taking part in moorland navigation challenges broaden pupils’ horizons and help prepare them for life beyond primary school.

The report says: “Events such as UK Parliament Week and a partnership with a primary school in Mumbai widen pupils’ horizons and deepen their understanding of different countries and cultures.”

Inspectors also highlighted the role of the school’s outdoor environment in supporting pupils’ wellbeing.

“Playtimes contribute positively to pupils’ wellbeing,” the report states. “Pupils can walk a mile and play collaboratively at lunch, building dens, using sandpits and creating swings with tyres. Peer mediators support other pupils to get involved.”

Academically, inspectors said pupils achieve well overall. Attainment in national tests at the end of Year 6 is “generally above national averages, including for disadvantaged pupils”.

The inspection also highlighted the school’s broad curriculum, which reflects its rural setting while preparing pupils for the wider world.

“This small school has benefited from collaboration across the trust to design an ambitious and broad curriculum,” inspectors said. “The curriculum reflects and celebrates the local rural environment. For example, pupils learn about farming and agriculture using subject-specific vocabulary.”

Inspectors said leaders have a clear vision for the school and are ambitious for pupils in the rural community, aiming to ensure children value their surroundings while developing “a strong sense of belonging to a wider, global community”.

Happy and eager pupils praised at high achieving Devon school

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“A calm, purposeful atmosphere supports respectful interactions between adults and pupils,” inspectors said after praising the culture of learning at a Devon primary where pupils are described as “happy, kind and eager to learn”.

Torre Church of England Academy in Torquay has been commended by Ofsted inspectors for strong achievement, behaviour and teaching following an inspection on January 20.

The school, located on Barton Road in the Devon seaside town, has 321 pupils and is led by head teacher Laura Kendell.

Inspectors found that pupils consistently perform well academically, with outcomes that exceed national averages by the end of key stage 2.

The report states: “Pupils achieve well at Torre C of E Academy. Leaders’ aspiration of academic excellence is reflected in the outcomes of pupils. Staff track pupils skills in early reading, writing and mathematics rigorously across the school and act swiftly to close any gaps. By the end of key stage 2, the majority of pupils, including those who are disadvantaged, achieve above national averages in all standardised tests.”

It continues: “Year 4 multiplication outcomes and phonics results also exceed national figures. This strong performance reflects the school’s high-quality curriculum and consistently high expectations. This means that most pupils are ready for their next phase of learning.”

Inspectors also highlighted strong progress in the early years, noting that many children start school with lower than average development levels but quickly build essential skills.

“Although some pupils in the early years start school with lower than average levels of development, most quickly gain the language, communication, number, phonics and handwriting skills they need for Year 1,” the report states.

Attendance and behaviour were also described as strengths. Leaders were praised for their work with families and their focus on building positive relationships to support regular attendance.

“Leaders hold high ambitions for attendance and make it a clear priority. Their work has made regular attendance a strength of the school,” inspectors wrote. “Attendance for all pupils, including disadvantaged pupils and those with special educational needs and/or disabilities, sits above national averages.”

Behaviour in classrooms and around the school was equally positive. Inspectors said: “Learning behaviours are a strength of the school. Pupils are active, engaged and eager to learn. They respond quickly to teacher direction and show consistently positive attitudes in every classroom. A calm, purposeful atmosphere supports respectful interactions between adults and pupils.”

The report emphasised that bullying is not a significant concern at the school, adding that pupils show empathy and treat each other with respect during social times.

Inspectors also praised the school’s ambitious curriculum, which combines academic learning with a focus on character development.

“Leaders have designed an ambitious and research-informed curriculum. They have carefully combined their three core priorities of academic excellence, metacognition and character education to ensure that learning builds securely from pre-school onwards,” the report says.

In early years provision, inspectors found strong practice and high-quality interactions between adults and children. “Warm, high-quality and purposeful interactions between adults and children are evident throughout,” they wrote, noting that staff quickly identify children’s needs and plan learning experiences to address gaps in development.

The inspection also highlighted the school’s inclusive approach, with staff working closely with families and external agencies to support pupils with additional needs. “Leaders know pupils’ needs extremely well. They identify these needs as soon as children join the school,” the report says, adding that early support means many pupils do not require additional interventions later.

Personal development opportunities were another key strength, with the school offering a wide range of experiences beyond the classroom. The report notes that the school’s “eleven before eleven” initiative gives pupils opportunities such as visiting a university, eating in a restaurant and attending theatre performances. These activities are designed to broaden pupils’ horizons and raise aspirations.

Inspectors summarised pupils’ experience of school life by writing: “Pupils at Torre C of E Academy are happy, kind and eager to learn. They arrive at school ready to participate and show clear pride in their work.”

Small Devon school praised as pupils feel part of a family

“A supportive family” where pupils “arrive with a sense that they belong” – inspectors have praised the atmosphere and standards at a small Devon primary school following a recent Ofsted inspection.

Parkham Primary School, near Bideford, was inspected on Monday, January 6. The school has just 59 pupils on roll, far below the national average of 272, and inspectors highlighted the benefits of its small size in shaping a close-knit school community.

In the report, inspectors said: “Pupils enjoy school and arrive with a sense that they belong here. They attend often. The school’s small size ensures that staff and pupils know each other well. Pupils describe their school as a family. They are keen to socialise with their friends before lessons begin and behave well in the playground.”

Early years provision at the school was judged to be of a strong standard. Inspectors said leaders have prioritised developing the youngest pupils’ learning, ensuring children receive “a secure educational start”.

The report states: “Leaders have prioritised the development of the early years, resulting in high-quality provision from when children begin school. Children receive a secure educational start. Leaders have designed a well-thought-out, research informed curriculum.”

Inspectors noted that regular checks on children’s learning help staff quickly identify those needing extra support, while strong partnerships with parents and external agencies ensure that pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities receive appropriate help.

Staff were also praised for how they engage with younger children. The report says: “Staff engage purposefully with children through skilful, direct teaching and adapt their level of support to meet individual needs. Activities are carefully chosen to develop children’s skills and imagination.”

Across the school more widely, pupils were found to be achieving well, with leaders placing a strong emphasis on core skills such as reading, handwriting and number knowledge.

Inspectors wrote: “Pupils achieve well at Parkham Primary School. Most are well prepared for the next stage of their education. The broad curriculum ensures that pupils develop appropriate knowledge and skills in different subjects.”

They added that recent training for staff in phonics has helped strengthen reading outcomes. “In recent years, leaders have prioritised training for staff in phonics. This has led to consistently improving outcomes for pupils. This ensures that pupils develop a secure foundation of knowledge and skills for reading.”

Behaviour and attendance were also highlighted as strengths. Inspectors said pupils behave well, with disruption in lessons rare.

The report states: “Pupils behave well and incidents of low-level disruption are rare. Staff hold consistently high expectations for pupils’ conduct and promote pupils’ self-discipline and independence from an early age.”

Playtimes and lunchtimes were described as “safe, orderly and calm”, with pupils demonstrating good manners and positive relationships with one another.

Inspectors also praised the school’s inclusive ethos, particularly the support provided for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Staff receive training to help them meet pupils’ needs, while leaders work closely with external agencies when additional expertise is required.

“Leaders and staff are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), to be fully included in all that the school provides,” the report says.

Leadership and governance were found to be effective, with inspectors highlighting a culture focused on pupils’ best interests.

“Across all levels of leadership, there is a culture that each decision is made in the best interests of pupils and the school community,” inspectors said. “They recognise the complexities associated with a small school with mixed-age classes. This does not limit leaders’ ambition and they remain committed to ensuring high expectations and positive outcomes for all pupils.”

Staff wellbeing was also noted positively. According to the report: “Staff speak positively about leaders’ consideration of their wellbeing and work–life balance. They value the opportunities for ongoing training and recognise the positive impact this has on their teaching and pupils’ achievement. Staff describe the school as a ‘supportive family’.”

Inspectors identified areas for further improvement. Leaders have been advised to strengthen how assessment and feedback are used in some foundation subjects so that gaps in pupils’ knowledge are addressed more precisely. They were also encouraged to continue developing pupils’ understanding of cultural diversity to better prepare them for life in modern Britain.

School smartphone ban welcomed but MP says ministers must go further

A Devon MP has accused Labour of being forced into a climbdown over smartphones in schools after months of pressure from parents, teachers and Conservatives.

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, has welcomed the government’s decision to introduce a statutory ban on smartphones in schools.

The Conservative MP said Labour had previously argued that existing guidance was enough, but had now changed course following sustained pressure from her party.

Miss Smith said: “This is a welcome step, but it has been a long time coming.

“For months, teachers and parents have raised serious concerns about the impact of smartphones in schools, only to be told by Labour that nothing more needed to be done.

“It is only after consistent pressure from Conservatives, including the shadow education secretary, Laura Trott, that the government has finally acted.

“This is not just about distraction in the classroom. It is about the real impact on young people’s confidence, wellbeing and ability to learn.

“Parents want to know their children are safe and able to focus at school.”

Miss Smith also said further action was needed on social media and online content.

She added: “Banning smartphones in schools is only part of the solution. We also need to tackle the wider impact of social media, including stronger protections for under-16s.

“Too many teenagers are being exposed to graphic and age-inappropriate material online, including pornography and other disturbing content.

“Parents are rightly concerned about how easily this can be accessed.

“It is therefore disappointing that, last night, Labour voted against a Conservative amendment on this for the third time.

“Whilst the action on smartphones in schools is welcome, the government is still dragging its feet when it comes to protecting young people from the harms of social media.

“I will continue to push for the urgent action needed to properly protect young people.”

Pupils thrive as primary school secures top marks for inclusion and care

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A primary school described as feeling “like a village in a city” has been praised by inspectors after achieving high marks for both achievement and inclusion.

Stuart Road Academy, part of Reach South Academy Trust, has been graded “Strong Standard” in achievement and inclusion, while receiving “Expected Standard” ratings across all other areas in its latest Ofsted inspection.

The inspection follows recent changes to Ofsted’s reporting system, which has replaced single-word judgements with a broader five-point grading scale designed to give a more detailed picture of school performance.

Inspectors noted that pupils are greeted warmly when they arrive, helping to create a positive atmosphere that both staff and children describe as “like a village in a city”. This, they said, supports pupils to settle into learning quickly.

The report highlighted the school’s strong focus on inclusion, stating that pupils feel known and understood, and have trusted adults they can turn to. Leaders were also praised for providing effective support for families, with parents regularly sharing positive feedback about the help their children receive.

In early years settings, inspectors found that children benefit from a strong start to their education, supported by nurturing relationships that help them settle quickly.

The curriculum was described as well designed and knowledge-rich, with visits and visitors helping to spark pupils’ curiosity. Staff were also commended for closely tracking learning and addressing gaps, contributing to strong academic outcomes.

According to the report, phonics results in Year 1 are above national averages, while key stage 2 results in reading, writing and mathematics have typically exceeded national figures over time. Disadvantaged pupils were also found to achieve well.

Inspectors further noted that the school environment includes well-designed spaces, such as sensory areas, which support a wide range of needs, alongside a broad programme of clubs covering sports, music and other interests.

Michelle Riley, headteacher at Stuart Road Academy, said: “We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised both the strength of our outcomes and the inclusive culture that sits at the heart of Stuart Road Academy.

“Achieving a ‘Strong Standard’ in both achievement and inclusion is a significant milestone for us, and reflects the dedication, care and expertise of our entire staff team.

“We are proud that the impact of our leadership is being recognised so clearly.

“This reflects the relentless focus we have placed on doing what is right for our pupils.

“The strong outcomes our children are achieving, alongside the positive ethos that runs throughout the school, are a direct result of the support we have put in place to allow every child to succeed.”

Inspectors concluded that pupils leave the school well prepared for the next stage of their education.

From classroom to career students explore pathways during themed week

Students have been given a hands-on glimpse into their future careers, stepping beyond the classroom to explore the world of work through a week of practical activities and employer-led sessions.

Pupils at The Ilfracombe Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, took part in a series of careers assemblies, workshops and subject-focused sessions designed to highlight different pathways after school.

Some students also experienced mock interviews, offering an opportunity to practise real-life application skills and build confidence ahead of future job or education opportunities.

The programme formed part of National Careers Week and included contributions from employers and external organisations such as Petroc College and Future Smart Careers. Sessions provided insight into a range of options including apprenticeships, university routes and vocational training.

The school said it places a strong emphasis on preparing students for employment, with a structured careers programme aimed at helping pupils explore options, develop key skills and make informed decisions about their next steps. The programme is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of learners.

Headteacher Steve Rogers said: “It was great to see our students taking full advantage of the opportunities to hear from employers and training providers.

“They were asking questions, exploring different routes and thinking positively about their futures.”

Runners raise thousands for air ambulance at reservoir event

Over 150 people helped raise thousands of pounds for the Devon Air Ambulance Trust by taking part in a Reservoir Run at Roadford Lake last weekend.

Hosted by South West Water on Sunday 19 April, 178 participants turned out for the spring sunshine, running either 2.5k, 5k or 10k to raise £2,670 for charity.

Near the Devon and Cornwall border, Roadford boasts a variety of natural habitats including grasslands, woodlands, pastures and orchards, making it the perfect place for runners and supporters to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

All participants were presented with a goody bag and medal at the finish line – with trophies going to the winners of first, second and third places for each race.

All of the money raised went to Devon Air Ambulance who respond to emergencies, including serious illness and injuries, 365 days a year. Launched in 1992, its crew of pilots, paramedics and doctors provide rapid care, by air or by road, when its needed most.

Tracy Hepper, Corporate Partnership Managerat the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, said: “We are always so appreciative of the support we receive from our local businesses. Thanks to South West Water for organising such a great event and to all the participants that took part, raising vital funds for the charity. Everyone’s support plays a crucial role in our community and events like this enables us to continue saving lives across Devon.”

Dani Twelvetree, South West Water’s Director of Customer Communications & Engagement, said: “The Roadford Reservoir Run was a fantastic day and a real celebration of community spirit. The sunshine, positive together for such a good cause.

“We’re incredibly proud to have supported an event that not only brought people to one of our beautiful lakes but also raised awareness and funds for Devon Air Ambulance.”

Traffic changes in Kingsbridge as culvert works move forward

A temporary one-way system is being introduced in Kingsbridge town centre to help ease traffic flow while work continues to install a new culvert in Fore Street.

Work on the scheme is ongoing, and the old culvert and collapsed stonework has now been totally removed.

Sections of the new culvert have started to arrive on site, and the first section should be installed soon.

This new culvert will filter down towards Ilbert Road, where one lane will have to be temporarily closed for the safety of the workforce and the public. It will also allow pumped water to be safely removed from the culvert site.

This temporary closure will take effect from Saturday 2 May, and a temporary one-way system will be in place to minimise traffic disruption until the scheme has been completed.

Motorists wishing to use the A379 from Plymouth direction will filter down Fore Street into Duncombe Street, Belle Vue Road, Church Street, Bridge Road and out as normal towards West Charleton, Chillington and Stokenham.

Kingsbridge pottery finds

Those travelling from West Charleton, Chillington and Stokenham direction will still be able to use Ilbert Road as normal to join the A381 towards Salcombe or A379 Cookworthy Road.

The one-way system will be signed for road users and buses will follow this route.

Devon County Council Leader Councillor Julian Brazil said: “No one wants this, but the emergency works have got to be done. Our priority is to support the town and its businesses. The free car parking and now this new one-way regime will mitigate the issues. Having said that, we know we need to get the works completed as soon as possible. That’s what we all want.”

Excavation work has unearthed some interesting historical finds with at least two structures of the “Kings Bridge”. Both have been left in position and documented for the Town Council, the museum and future generations of Kingsbridge residents.

Pottery dating back centuries has also been found, including a broken wine vessel for a wine and spirit merchant from the town, another piece of a bottle top, and two large pieces of ceramics.

Kingsbridge’s town centre car parks run by South Hams District Council continue to be free to use after 2pm each day to try and encourage more people into the town while these essential repairs are carried out.