We are incredibly proud to announce that Polperro Primary Academy has been named one of just two recipients of the prestigious Orwell Society School Award for 20242025. This exceptional recognition celebrates a creative and thoughtful educational project inspired by George Orwells deep love of nature - an interest that took root during his childhood holidays in Polperro.

Led by Headteacher Anthea Hillman, with the support of Trust Academy colleague Dani May and a wonderfully dedicated team, the school launched a nature-focused initiative that brought Orwells passion for the natural world to life in extraordinary ways for their children.

In Orwells Footsteps

George Orwells connection to Polperro is not only personal but also profoundly tied to his early encounters with the natural world. Drawing on this inspiration, the Polperro team designed a project that immersed the children in the flora, fauna, and landscapes that once inspired one of Britains greatest writers.

Through a special link with Bodmin Airfield, the children studied the vibrant wildflower meadows that spread across the sites grasslands. Visits and talks from the National Trust and Cornwall Wildlife Trust brought to life the regions lesser-known ecological gems - including a rare temperate rainforest, a surviving fragment of an ancient landscape that once covered much of Cornwall.

Far more than just classroom learning, this project took the children out into nature - exploring the Cornish countryside and coastline, following in Orwells footsteps, and preparing for an exciting upcoming visit to the rainforest, where they will also take part in tree planting efforts.

Creating Orwells Found Nature Sketchbook

One of the most imaginative aspects of the project has been the creation of a unique, collaborative art and writing piece - a nature sketchbook designed to appear as if it once belonged to Orwell himself.

Working with local artist Sean Hewitt, children from Years 4 to 6 contributed beautifully detailed drawings and notes about the insects, plants, and animals they observed on their nature walks. Each child drew half a page that, when combined with a partners, formed a cohesive full-page spread - teaching collaboration as well as precision.

The twist? This sketchbook is presented as a recently discovered relic, as if left behind by Orwell during one of his cliffside rambles. To achieve this effect, pupils used tea-staining techniques and digital aging tools to give the book an authentic early-1900s look and feel.

Language, Learning and Environmental Stewardship

This cross-curricular project hasn't just encouraged artistic creativity - it's significantly deepened the children's scientific vocabulary, including Latin names for species, and empowered them to write evocative descriptions of the natural world. Anthea and Dani, who are both passionate about the English language and the environment, have led writing workshops that helped the children craft beautiful, thoughtful reflections - pieces that now appear throughout the fictional found notebook.

Under the guidance of poet Sally Crabtree, children also created cinquains - five-line, unrhymed poems - expressing their appreciation of the environment with newly acquired vocabulary and poetic skill.

Through this multi-faceted approach, the project has promoted teamwork, IT skills, creativity, and a joyful sense of discovery, all while reinforcing a vital message about conservation and care for the natural world.

Looking Ahead: An Exhibition and a Special Visit

As a celebration of the pupils achievements, Polperro Primary Academy will host a special exhibition in October, welcoming members of the Orwell Society - including George Orwell's son, Richard Blair. The children will proudly present their work, sharing the knowledge, insight and artistic creations that this exceptional project has helped them develop.

Headteacher Anthea Hillman said "The Orwell Polperro Project has been a truly enriching experience for our children. It has deepened their understanding and appreciation of their unique local environment, while expanding their scientific vocabulary, artistic skills, and writing skills. The project has also fostered a stronger awareness of conservation and the importance of protecting our natural heritage. We are very much looking forward to welcoming the Orwell Society to Polperro in October, where the children will proudly share their work in a special exhibition which will be attended by Orwell's son, Richard Blair."

We couldn't be more proud of our young explorers, artists, and writers - and of the inspirational team that made this unforgettable journey possible.  Well done everyone!