The South West Academic Trust (SWAT)
We gain massive benefits from belonging to SWAT. The South West Academic Trust is a partnership of leading grammar schools in the South West and the University of Exeter. Established over 15 years ago, SWAT aims to foster mutual support among its members, share best practices, and provide opportunities for students to engage with peers from other institutions. The vision is to raise achievement and aspiration in our group of schools within Wiltshire, Dorset and Devon and to be able to share and embed innovations and good practices with others.
The member schools – of which Torquay Girls' Grammar School is one – are listed below and they all work collaborate closely with the University of Exeter to enhance educational experiences.
Activities organised by SWAT include teaching and learning conferences featuring seminars on a range of topics to develop teaching skills and practices as well as subject meetings between middle leaders, covering not just academic and department areas but also important educational aspects such as pastoral care and assessment. Additionally, the trust coordinates competitions and events for students, including the Annual SWAT Challenge which is hosted by the University of Exeter and allows students to plan and present solutions to key topical issues, usually judged by leading experts in their field. Staff benefit from professional development opportunities and the sharing of resources, while students gain from enriched learning experiences and collaborative events that promote personal and academic growth.
The other schools who are actively working in collaboration with the University of Exeter are:
Bournemouth School for Girls
Churston Ferrers Grammar School
Colyton Grammar School
Devonport High School for Boys
Devonport High School for Girls
Parkstone Grammar School,
Plymouth High School for Girls
Poole Grammar School
South Wilts Grammar School
Torquay Boys Grammar School
University of Exeter