A Year 10 student at a Taunton school has claimed victory in an international boxing competition.
Jessy Heyburn, from Monkton Wood Academy, won a gold belt at the 2025 Portimão Box Cup Portugal.
Representing Blue Flames ABC, she won by unanimous decision in the final bout.
To read the full story on the Somerset County Gazette click here.
Jessy Heyburn, a talented Year 10 student at Monkton Wood Academy, has claimed an impressive victory at the 2025 Portimão Box Cup Portugal, winning a gold belt by unanimous decision in the final bout.
Representing Blue Flames ABC, Jessy was placed straight into the final, where she boxed over three intense rounds. Demonstrating both adaptability and tactical skill, Jessy stepped out of her usual fighting style and achieved a decisive result.
“I boxed a different style to what I normally do and had a good outcome for it,” said Jessy. “I am really pleased with my success.”
A spokesperson for Monkton Wood Academy added: “We are incredibly proud of Jessy’s outstanding achievement on an international stage.
“Her dedication to both her sport and her education sets a fantastic example for students across the academy.
“She continues to embody the values of hard work, resilience, and ambition.”
Monkton Wood Academy is celebrating an unprecedented sporting achievement—winning three district football championships in a single season.
Mel Pattemore, Head of Physical Education spoke to BBC Radio Somerset about this, here is what Mel had to say.
Monkton Wood Academy has won three district football championships in one season.
The finals were all held at Taunton Town Football Club.
In the first match, the Year 8 team succeeded with a 4-3 penalty win against Bishop Fox’s School.
To read the full story on the Somerset Gazette website click here.
A determined team of six students from Monkton Wood Academy has successfully completed the gruelling Ten Tors Challenge, covering 35 miles across rugged Dartmoor.
Led by team captain Elsie Ryder, the team—consisting of Ned Ellwood, Thomas Rowson, Emily Lewis, Alex Bashford, and William Davis—spent months preparing for this demanding event with training sessions both in the classroom and out on the moors.
The Ten Tors Challenge, organised annually by the British Army, pushes young people aged 14–19 to their limits. Teams must navigate unassisted across Dartmoor, visiting ten designated tors (hilltops) while carrying all necessary gear and camping wild overnight. The event tests not only physical stamina but also teamwork, resilience, and navigation skills.
This year, the Monkton Wood Academy team completed the 35-mile route with skill and determination, managing all aspects of the expedition independently. Their impressive performance is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and unity.
Jennifer Martin, a member of the staff who supported the team throughout their preparation, said: “We are incredibly proud of what these students have achieved.
“The Ten Tors is one of the most challenging youth events in the UK, and to see them complete it with such confidence and teamwork has been truly inspiring.
“Their resilience and spirit represent the very best of Monkton Wood Academy.”
Monkton Wood Academy is celebrating an unprecedented sporting achievement—winning three district football championships in a single season.
All three finals were held at the prestigious Taunton Town Football Club.
Year 8 students were crowned district champions after a thrilling 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Bishop Fox’s School, following a fiercely competitive match.
Year 9 took on The Castle School. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, Monkton Wood secured a commanding 3-0 win in the penalty shootout.
Year 11 faced Bishop Fox’s in a gripping match that ended 2-2. Monkton Wood again triumphed on penalties, winning 4-2 after an end-to-end battle.
Mel Pattemore, Head of Physical Education, praised the teams: “We are immensely proud of all our players.
“Their determination, teamwork, and composure under pressure have been phenomenal.
“To win three finals is an incredible achievement for our players and academy.”
Monkton Wood Academy’s year eight students have been crowned district football champions.
The team secured the title after a competitive match against Bishop Fox’s School at Taunton Town FC’s stadium.
To read the full story on the Somerset Gazette website please click here.
Year 8 students from Monkton Wood Academy have been crowned District Football Champions after a thrilling and fiercely competitive final against Bishop Fox’s School at the prestigious Taunton Town football stadium.
In a nerve-trembling game of end-to-end football, watched by a huge and passionate crowd glued to an intensive game of football, Luca Ciocan became the hero of the hour by scoring a dramatic last-gasp equaliser just before the final whistle.
With the scores level at full time, the match went to penalties. Goalkeeper Reggie Felton delivered a stunning performance, making two spectacular saves to swing the momentum in Monkton Wood’s favour.
The team held their nerve and went on to win the shootout 4-3.
Mel Pattemore, Head of Physical Education at Monkton Wood Academy, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of the team.
“Their resilience, teamwork, and determination were outstanding from start to finish.
“It was a brilliant display of character and talent, and they fully deserve this victory.”
A brand-new weekly science club has launched at Monkton Wood Academy, sparking curiosity and creativity among Key Stage 3 students.
The club, led by Bryony Blinman and assistance from Step into Teaching science apprentices Henry and Katelyn, already welcomes around 15–20 students each week.
Though aimed primarily at KS3, the club has also attracted a couple of enthusiastic Year 10 students who volunteer their time to help out.
Personal invitations were sent out to encourage participation, and the response has been fantastic.
To keep students motivated and engaged, attendees receive a sticker each week they attend. Those who collect 10 stickers earn a coveted Science Club pin badge – a reward that’s quickly becoming a popular goal among the group.
Each week brings a hands-on activity. At a recent session, Henry led students in building their own ecosystems inside terrariums – ingeniously repurposing an old, leaky fish tank for the project.
Bryony Blinman, Teacher of Science at Monkton Wood Academy, said: “It’s been wonderful to see students so engaged and excited about science.
“Henry and Katelyn bring great energy to the club, and the hands-on activities really capture the student’s imagination.”
Monkton Wood Academy has congratulated former student Richard Capstick, who left Heathfield School (the former name of Monkton Wood) in 2016, on his continued success in professional rugby.
Richard has been a key player for Exeter Chiefs and has now achieved another milestone in his career – his recent selection to play for England A.
He was part of the England A team that secured an impressive 28-12 victory against Ireland A.
A spokesperson said: “We are incredibly proud of Richard’s achievements.
“His dedication and hard work have been evident since his school days, and it’s fantastic to see him continue to excel at the highest levels of rugby.
“We wish him all the best in his future performances with England A and Exeter Chiefs.”
Richard’s journey from Heathfield to professional rugby serves as an inspiration to current students.
His selection for England A is a testament to his commitment and talent, and school leaders look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.
