First student graduates from pioneering Devon school

The Outdoors School's very first student has successfully completed secondary level education and moved into post-16 provision.

Josh Sterry passed his Functional Skills exams in Maths and English and has recently started a Level 1 course in construction at Bicton College.

Josh joined The Outdoors School at the original West Town Farm site when it opened in 2019, after struggling at his mainstream school, where he was a shy, quiet learner with very low expectations of his potential.

He developed and thrived in the unique educational model of The Outdoors School, which uses a constructivist, learner-led approach to education. A particular element of the curriculum, the use of tools, sparked a real passion and he became a competent builder, helping to make benches and getting involved in other woodwork projects.

Josh continued to grow in confidence and aspirations and was an excellent ambassador for the school when he went to the Devon Bird of Prey Centre for work experience in Year 9. When he entered Key Stage 4, he was elected Chair of the school’s new Junior Leadership Team.

The Outdoors School Headteacher, Robyn Vincent explained why this was so important for him: “It was a huge accomplishment for Josh. He took the role very seriously, taking part in the interview process for new staff as well as chairing meetings and overseeing the school’s involvement in the Eco Schools programme.”

Key Stage 4 has only been provided by the school since 2022, so Josh’s success is seen as a tremendous achievement for the whole school community. It’s a positive example of how this style of alternative education can really work for students unable to thrive in mainstream schools.

Robyn added: “We couldn’t be more proud and we wish him well for his future, knowing he has all the skills to do well at whatever he sets his mind to. Josh, you are a star!”

Since opening in 2019, The Outdoors School has grown from 16 students at 1 site to 80 students at 4 sites. The school provides pupils with the skills and knowledge needed to overcome previous barriers to learning, with themes including healthy lifestyles, families and relationships and conservation, alongside traditional key areas of education such as English, Maths, PE, and Humanities.

With the Key Stage 4 provision proving such a success, the school is looking forward to seeing more learners follow in Josh’s footsteps.