'I want young people to build memories, friendships and lifelong skills' - inside The Thomas Adams School in Wem

Headteacher, Mark Cooper has become part of the furniture and is celebrating 30 years with the school. He says he has seen the school and its site change and develop over the years, and is excited by recent improvements and investments which have been made.

The secondary school is extremely proud of its boarding facilities. Mr Cooper said it brings diversity, provides pupils with different experiences and is a thoroughly 'valued' part of the school.

The Thomas Adams School has a strong focus on community and is proud to have several former pupils now working as teachers.

The school stresses an importance on pupils being able to reach their full potential as well as learning valuable life skills. Incredible art by students is displayed on the school's walls - the secondary school is proud of what its students are capable of and this year's school production of Oliver is eagerly anticipated by staff and parents.

Pupils embark on trips, performing in bands and choirs, travel the globe to participate in sporting events and learn about culture and history.

And, significantly, while The Thomas Adams School has high expectations and aims to deliver the best quality of education in say Maths, English and Science, it prides itself on teaching pupils skills which can be transferred into everyday life. 

"You might not be able to remember maths on a Thursday, but you might be able to remember a certain thing in technology or how to make an apple crumble in food technology or swimming," said headteacher Mr Cooper.

"Those life skills and practical skills are the things that stick with you and we really value that.

"We as a school value much more than the academic pathway. I want young people during their education experience to build memories, friendships, lifelong skills and achieve their academic potential.

"For anybody that visits the school the feedback is always about how warm, welcoming and friendly it is. It is a community school where staff, pupils and visitors are all a key part of the community and contribute.

"We are all about always continuing to improve.  We have our new school vision which is growing together, fulfilling potential and we came to that as what we think our community is."

The school has benefitted since joining the 3-18 Education Trust in 2020, having seen significant investment in its facilities including its fire safety provision, IT infrastructure, and more recently a new student support building has been erected and will aid young people with any additional needs or requirements.

Pupils have benefitted from the expansion of the school's library facility and new classroom screens for teaching.

Assistant headteacher, Tom McAleavy added: "We cater for a wide variety of intake in North Shropshire. We have a rare but unique state boarding opportunity.

We are very proud of our comprehensive offer including the opportunity to have alternative provision. We are very excited to have the new build that will add to our provision and help with our external agencies involvement for those individuals who may need additional support and needs."