We are very proud of the 14 pupils we have selected to take part in The Scholars Programme.

The Scholars Programme gives students in secondary school the opportunity to explore higher education and build key skills to help them succeed in the next stages of their education.   

Students take part in a series of seven university-style tutorials, delivered in-school by a PhD tutor throughout the course of an academic term. The tutorials are based on the tutor’s area of research expertise, so pupils explore an inspiring, supra-curricular topic whilst developing key academic skills that support their attainment across the curriculum. Students receive feedback and support from their PhD tutor to write a final assignment of 1,500-2000 words, demonstrating the subject knowledge, written communication and critical thinking skills they have developed throughout the programme.  

On completion of the programme, students visit a university for a Graduation Event to celebrate their achievements and build their understanding of higher education, helping them make informed choices in the future and believe that they can succeed in university-style learning. 

As part of our ongoing commitment to enriching students’ learning experiences beyond the classroom, we were delighted to host the Royal Navy for a special STEM-focused outreach day with our Year 8 and 9 pupils. The event was designed to inspire curiosity, promote teamwork, and show how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics play a vital role in modern careers - particularly within the Royal Navy.

Throughout the day, students took part in a range of hands-on challenges and interactive demonstrations, all led by experienced Royal Navy personnel. Activities focused on practical applications of physics, engineering principles, and problem-solving, giving students the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in school to real-world scenarios.

Highlights included team-based engineering tasks, where pupils had to build and test structures under time pressure, as well as sessions exploring how navigation, communication, and design rely on scientific thinking. The visiting team also shared fascinating insights into life in the Navy, discussing how STEM skills are essential not only in engineering roles, but across a wide variety of naval careers.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Many found the activities both exciting and eye-opening, gaining a new appreciation for how science can be applied in unexpected ways. One Year 8 student remarked, “I didn’t know science could be used like that—being an engineer could be a fun job to have!” Another said, “It made me think differently about what I might want to do in the future.”

Events like this are a valuable reminder of how powerful real-world engagement can be in shaping students’ aspirations. Through connecting the curriculum to tangible career pathways, we aim to help every student see the relevance of what they learn - and imagine themselves in roles they might not have considered before.

We extend our thanks to the Royal Navy for delivering such an inspiring and energetic day, and we look forward to continuing to offer similar opportunities that bring learning to life.

On 14th October, DEC took part in powerful assemblies delivered through Crimestoppers' Project Fearless, a national initiative designed to empower young people to speak out about crime and make safe, informed choices.

The assemblies, held across various year groups, focused on the importance of speaking up without fear, challenging harmful behaviours, and understanding the impact of crime on individuals and communities. Delivered in a relatable, age-appropriate way, the sessions were both informative and inspiring.

Key themes included:

• How to report crime anonymously through Crimestoppers
• Recognising and challenging peer pressure
• The importance of looking out for one another
• Building confidence to make the right choices—even when it’s not easy

Students learned that they have a voice—and that their actions can help create a safer school and community. The session also highlighted the unique and anonymous reporting service that Crimestoppers offers, giving young people a safe space to share concerns without fear of retaliation or judgment.

“The assembly made me realise that I don’t have to stay silent if I see something wrong,” said a Year 9 student. “Knowing there’s a safe way to speak up really matters.”

Project Fearless aligns closely with our school’s ongoing work on safeguarding, personal development, and community responsibility. We are proud to work in partnership with organisations like Crimestoppers to ensure that our students not only feel safe—but are equipped to help keep others safe too.

Further resources and discussions will continue in tutor time and PSHE lessons over the coming weeks.

This week we’re marking World Mental Health Day (10th October)
At DEC, we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. We will be learning about how to keep ourselves mentally healthy through assemblies this week. 

On Friday 10^th October we have a number of things to support our pupils with their wellbeing:

• Wellbeing team drop-in at break time in the meeting room opposite hall​
• Mindfulness colouring at break – hall​
• Tea/Toast and Talk – 8.25am in canteen

Let’s take time to check in with ourselves and each other — a kind word, a smile, or simply asking “Are you okay?” can make a real difference.

Remember: It’s okay to ask for help. You are never alone. 
#WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMatters #BeKindToYourMind

Thank you to all Year 7 parents and carers for attending our Macmillan Coffee Morning on 23rd September 2025. It was lovely to see so many of you, and thanks to your support, we helped raise close to £100! Your generosity means a lot and will make a real difference.

Staying connected with our community is a top priority, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you to stay in the loop. While our website continues to be a hub for important news and detailed updates, we also recognize that many parents and families prefer to receive information quickly and conveniently. That’s why we are very active on our social media channels, where we share reminders, highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments from our programs and events. By following us online, you’ll have instant access to announcements, upcoming opportunities, and celebrations of our students’ successes—all in one convenient place. We encourage you to join our growing online community and stay connected with everything happening here by clicking the links below.

Facebook - @DameElizabethCadbury

Instagram - @dameelizabethcadbury

Twitter - @FollowDECTC

At Dame Elizabeth Cadbury, we are committed to building partnerships with our parents and doing all we can to keep them informed and help them to support their child’s learning at home.  We are delighted to announce a range of sessions, both virtually and face to face, for the Autumn Term to support parents and carers.

2024

Previous Workshops

June 2023 Careers Update

Parental Session - Reading and Supporting Literacy

Creating a safe learning environment for your child

Take your child to work - Year 9

Take your child to work - Year 10

How to support your child at home - Maths GCSE

We are incredibly proud of our Year 11 students, whose determination, resilience and relentless hard work have paid off with fantastic results this GCSE Results Day.

These achievements are more than just grades – they represent years of effort, focus, and growth. They also open exciting doors for our students as they take their next steps into further education, apprenticeships and future careers.

A special congratulations goes to Katherine F, who earned an exceptional nine Grade 9s – a truly inspiring performance that highlights her dedication and passion for learning.

We also celebrate Callie M, who achieved 4 Grade 9s, 3 Grade 8s and 2 Grade 7s, and Stephen J, who secured 5 Grade 9s, 2 Grade 8s and 1 Grade 7 – both brilliant examples of what can be achieved through consistent hard work and determination.

Every student should feel proud today. These results are a gateway to new opportunities, and we can’t wait to see where the future takes them.

Well done, Year 11 – your efforts have truly paid off, and your journey is only just beginning!

We are delighted to announce another pleasing set of A-Level results at Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School, reflecting the hard work, determination, and ambition of our students. These results have enabled our students to take the next steps in their academic and professional journeys, securing places at prestigious universities and on competitive apprenticeship schemes. 

Among the many success stories, we are especially proud to highlight the achievements of: 

• Megan T, who achieved an outstanding set of results: A*A*A in Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry. Megan will be pursuing her passion for healthcare by studying Biochemistry at the University of Birmingham. 

• Shamsa H, who secured an impressive AAA in Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry, and will be studying Medicine at the University of Birmingham. 

These individual achievements are a testament not only to the students' dedication but also to the support provided by staff, families, and the wider school community. 

We congratulate all of our students on their successes and wish them every happiness and success as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. 

From 1st – 5th July, pupils from all Matrix Academy Trust schools, including Elmwood School who are joining the Matrix family in September, embarked on the final International trip of the 2024–2025 academic year. The 55 children experienced an unforgettable week in the heart of Italy.

During their time in Italy, students explored some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Colosseum and the Pantheon. A hands-on gladiator school experience gave everyone a taste of ancient Roman life — a highlight for many, even with the heat!

Adventurous spirits were tested on the high ropes course, followed by visits to the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the lively Piazza Navona. Although a planned trip to the Vatican was sadly cancelled due to a metro line closure, spirits remained high. Instead, the group enjoyed a sunny afternoon on the beach at Ostia, where paddling in the sea proved the perfect way to end a packed itinerary.

The behaviour of all students was exemplary throughout the trip — a real credit to the Trust and to their schools. The final trip of this year was a resounding success, leaving everyone with memories that will last a lifetime – and a lot of enthusiasm to participate in next year’s adventures!