Year 3, 5 and 6 pupils at Redstart Primary Academy recently enjoyed a truly out of this world experience when they welcomed the spectacular Space Odyssey to the school.
Space Odyssey is a mobile 360° 3D planetarium that delivers immersive space and biology education through high-resolution, interactive simulations, bringing complex scientific concepts vividly to life for pupils.
The workshops were led by astronomer Simon Ould, an experienced science teacher and Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society. Pupils explored our solar system and learned about the planets within it during sessions that were both breathtakingly immersive and highly inspirational.
The experience sparked curiosity, encouraged thoughtful questions and deepened pupils understanding of space science in a memorable and engaging way.
Roger Hunt, class teacher, said: “The Space Odyssey visit was an incredible experience for our pupils.
“The level of engagement was outstanding, and the children were completely captivated.
“It really brought their learning to life and inspired a genuine sense of wonder about the universe.”
The school would like to thank Space Odyssey for providing such an unforgettable educational experience that will continue to inspire learning long after the planetarium has gone.
Year One pupils from Redstart Primary School enjoyed a wonderful afternoon at Somerset Libraries Chard, where they took part in a fun-filled session designed to inspire a love of reading.
During the visit, pupils shared stories and sang songs together before exploring the wide range of books available to borrow.
The experience helped encourage enthusiasm for reading and showed children how libraries can be exciting, welcoming spaces for learning and imagination.
The school would like to say a big thank you to Costa Chard for kindly providing delicious hot chocolate to keep everyone warm during the afternoon.
A spokesperson said: “Visits like this are invaluable for our pupils.
“Spending time in the library, sharing stories and discovering new books helps nurture a lifelong love of reading.
“We are very grateful to Somerset Libraries Chard for hosting us and to Costa Chard for their generous support.”
It was a day spent witnessing the engineering marvels of Isambard Brunel for Year 5 pupils from Redstart Primary School during a visit to Bristol.
The first stop on their whistle-stop tour was the Clifton Suspension Bridge, where pupils experienced the dizzying heights and striking architecture of the world-renowned structure. Completed in 1864 after more than 30 years of construction, the bridge offered a powerful introduction to Brunel’s ingenuity and vision.
The next destination was the SS Great Britain, the groundbreaking iron steamship launched in 1843.
Pupils stepped back in time as they boarded the vessel, meeting costumed characters and imagining what life might have been like for passengers and crew during the Victorian era. The immersive experience brought history vividly to life and deepened their understanding of the ship’s pioneering design.
A school spokesperson said: “This trip was an incredible opportunity for our pupils to see history come alive.
“Experiencing Brunel’s work firsthand helped them understand not just the scale of his achievements, but also the creativity and determination behind them.
“The children came away inspired, excited, and full of questions, exactly what learning should spark.”
Redstart Primary Academy’s Nursery has received a generous financial boost from a major local superstore, thanks to the Tesco Stronger Starts community voting scheme. The Nursery was presented with a cheque for £1,330, following customers’ blue-token votes in support of the academy’s shortlisted project.
Tesco Stronger Starts provides funding to schools, clubs, and local groups, enabling them to make a real difference within their communities. Each time customers shop in Tesco stores, they are given a blue token to vote for one of three local good causes. The cause with the most votes receives the top grant.
The Nursery will use this funding to upgrade and enhance their home corner, providing pupils with an enriched learning environment and improved opportunities for imaginative play.
Rebecca Collins, Principal of Redstart Primary Academy, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Tesco and to everyone in our local community who voted for us.
“This funding will make a real difference to our children, helping us create a more inspiring and engaging space for their early learning and development.”
Year five and six pupils from Redstart Primary School celebrated the children’s carnival in Chard with gusto.
The youngsters demonstrated “fantastic enthusiasm” and “exemplary behaviour” at the community event, themed around The Greatest Showman.
To read how the Chard and Ilminster News website reported this click here.
Year 5 and 6 pupils from Redstart Primary School fully embraced the magic of the children’s carnival which took place at Chard in Somerset.
The children showed fantastic enthusiasm, exemplary behaviour, and had a whole heap of fun taking part in this amazing community event.
With the vibrant theme of The Greatest Showman, Redstart’s entry was a spectacular success, winning Best School Entry, Chairman’s Choice, and Most Colourful Display.
A massive thank you goes to the Parent Teacher Association, Friends of Redstart (FoRs) for their support and creativity, and to Mrs Preston and the Redstart team for their hard work in organising such a brilliant experience.
The event was an incredible success for both the school and the local community.
Rebecca Collins, Principal of Redstart Primary School, said: “I am so proud of our pupils for their energy, teamwork, and creativity.
“This event truly showcased the spirit of Redstart and the strength of our school community.”
Pupils at Redstart Primary School had a fantastic start to the year at the amazing place that is Forest School!
There were smiles all round as the children set off on an adventure to explore the natural environment, learn new skills, and embrace the outdoors with curiosity and joy.
Throughout the session, pupils worked on building confidence, teamwork, and a deeper connection with nature.
From den building to nature trails, the activities encouraged creativity, resilience, and plenty of muddy fun.
A school spokesperson said: “Forest School is such a wonderful way for our children to learn and grow.
“It gives them the chance to develop independence and teamwork skills while discovering the world around them.
“We’re so proud of how enthusiastic and engaged they’ve been, and we can’t wait to see what adventures the rest of the year brings.”
Here’s to many more muddy boots and happy faces at Redstart Primary.
Artistic start for pupils at Redstart Primary School
Year One pupils at Redstart Primary School have had a fantastic start to the term, immersing themselves in learning all about the animal kingdom and the wide variety of species within it.
As part of their studies, the children have put time, effort and concentration into creating a series of vibrant, colourful animal paintings, showcasing both their creativity and their understanding of the topic.
Great work, Year One!
A spokesperson for the school said: “We are incredibly proud of our Year One pupils.
“Their enthusiasm for learning about the animal kingdom has been inspiring, and their artwork is a wonderful reflection of both their imagination and hard work.
“It’s fantastic to see them engaging with their studies in such a creative and thoughtful way.”
Year One pupils from Redstart Primary School have enjoyed a truly memorable and enriching day at Magdalen Farm.
Blessed with glorious sunshine, pupils explored the natural surroundings and got hands-on with farm life.
Surrounded by blooming flowers, fresh produce, and friendly farm animals – including pigs, cows, goats, and chickens – pupils embraced the opportunity to get back to nature.
During the visit, pupils fed the animals, sampled new and exciting tastes, went pond dipping, and even created their own delicious pizzas using fresh ingredients.
A school spokesperson said: “The children were so fantastic and represented our school so well, we had the best time.”
The day was a perfect blend of education and fun, helping to bring classroom learning to life in a vibrant, outdoor setting.
Year Two pupils from Redstart Primary School enjoyed a wonderful day of sunshine, sea air, and discovery during a recent visit to Lyme Regis, West Dorset – a stunning part of England’s Jurassic Coast.
Pupils explored the famous shingle beach, soaking up the fresh seaside air while enjoying packed lunches with spectacular sea views.
The day was filled with excitement and learning as pupils delved into the story of Mary Anning, the pioneering 19th-century palaeontologist and fossil collector who once walked the same shoreline in search of ancient treasures.
The visit offered pupils a hands-on glimpse into Britain’s rich geological history and inspired a spirit of curiosity and adventure.
A school spokesperson said: “It was a magical day for our Year Two pupils – full of sunshine, laughter, and discovery.
“Walking in the footsteps of Mary Anning really brought the curriculum to life, and the children loved every minute of it.”
