Key Dates:
INSET Day: Monday 6th January 2025; School closed to students
Start of Term: Tuesday 7th January 2025; School starts promptly at 8:30am for all year groups on a Week A timetable.
November 21, 2024 09:55am
The Portsmouth Academy (TPA) has had an extraordinary year with its participation in Big Ideas 2024, a national programme that encourages young people to think creatively about solutions to global challenges.
The initiative, which began in January, has seen students thrive, culminating in a meeting earlier this month with Stephen Morgan MP to showcase their success and discuss the lasting impact of the programme.
Phase 1: Big Ideas Day at TPA
In January, TPA welcomed 90 students into the main hall for Big Ideas Day. Working in teams, the students explored some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Guided by mentors from Solutions for the Planet and Tarmac, the young innovators brainstormed creative solutions, fostering teamwork and entrepreneurial spirit.
Laura Watform, TPA’s Big Ideas lead, reflected on the experience:
“Leading Big Ideas at TPA was a transformational experience for both the children and staff. Watching the young people grow their idea from just a seed was such an honour. The support of the Big Ideas team was so valuable, and the programme and resources are so effectively designed to coach the very best skills for the young people.”
Phase 2: Regional Finals at the University of Portsmouth
Following weeks of preparation, five teams from TPA advanced to the Regional Finals on 13th May 2024. These students developed comprehensive business plans and presentations with the support of business mentors Sharon and Tom from Tarmac, focusing on key aspects such as finance, marketing, and impact.
The competition was fierce, but two TPA teams stood out:
Sabriha, a Year 9 student from the winning team, shared her thoughts:
“Coming first in the regional competition was incredible, as was attending the national finals at the National Science Museum. But what was most valuable was the skills and experience we gained across the whole programme that we will take forward into our future.”
Phase 3: National Finals at the Science Museum
The Nature Heroes team went on to represent TPA at the National Finals in July at the prestigious Science Museum, London. Competing against top teams from across the country, they demonstrated innovation and resilience, gaining invaluable exposure to STEM careers and professional networks.
Meeting Stephen Morgan MP
Earlier this month, the students had the honour of meeting Stephen Morgan MP, where they shared their Big Ideas journey and showcased the legacy of the programme. Laura expressed her pride in the students and the programme’s long-term impact:
“Today it was such a pleasure to return to TPA to support their meeting with Stephen Morgan MP. I was so proud of their project and success, but to see the legacy that the programme has left is even more special.”
A Transformational Journey
Big Ideas 2024 has empowered TPA students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and tackle real-world challenges. With support from mentors, staff, and organisations like Solutions for the Planet, these young changemakers have not only succeeded in competitions but also developed skills that will serve them for life.
As we celebrate their achievements, we look forward to seeing the next generation of thinkers and leaders continue to transform their ideas into impactful actions.