What Happened at Pool Academy on 21st March Will Make You Smile

Bake sale, rowing challenge and odd socks mark a special day of fundraising

Students at Pool Academy rolled up their sleeves and got stuck in for a double celebration on Thursday 21st March, combining Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day with World Down Syndrome Day.

The school, part of Athena Learning Trust, turned the day into a fun and meaningful experience packed with activities that supported good causes both in the UK and around the world.

Cakes, Socks and a Whole Lot of Rowing

The school held a bake sale as part of Comic Relief’s Big Bake, offering sweet treats for just £1 each. Students were encouraged to bake and donate their creations, all in support of Comic Relief, which funds a wide range of projects — from baby banks and youth safe-spaces to health workers and emergency aid for those escaping danger.

To mark World Down Syndrome Day, students and staff joined in by wearing odd socks — a colourful and symbolic gesture celebrating diversity and promoting inclusion.

Another highlight was the school’s indoor rowing challenge, where students and staff teamed up throughout the day to clock up the greatest distance on rowing machines.

‘All About Coming Together’

Speaking about the day, Principal Nick Ward said:

“We are so excited to be part of such an important cause. These events were a wonderful way to engage our school community in supporting vital global initiatives while having some fun. From the bake sale to the indoor rowing challenge, it’s all about coming together, celebrating diversity, and making a positive impact.”

Strong Values and Calm Classrooms

Pool Academy’s approach is built on core values of aspiration, belonging and respect, with high expectations for all students and their conduct.

Ofsted inspectors have noted that pupils “feel safe at school and value the strong pastoral support they receive.” They also praised the calm learning environment and the well-planned curriculum that underpins student success.

No doubt, Thursday’s fundraising efforts reflected that same spirit — coming together, showing care for others, and enjoying every minute of it.