This Week’s News In The Plymouth Chronicle Newspaper

Luke Pollard MP pictured with Rebecca Smith MP, Defence Minister, Lord Coaker and the new Naval Base Commander, Commodore Jane Roe.

This week’s Plymouth Chronicle Waterside & West edition highlights a broad cross-section of achievement, civic engagement and community support across the Plymouth.

Education featured prominently, beginning with All Saints Academy students taking part in a hands-on Formula 1-inspired STEM experience.

Pupils worked collaboratively to design and engineer model race cars, developing practical skills in aerodynamics, branding and teamwork. The initiative provided valuable insight into potential career pathways in engineering, design and technology. (P17)

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At City College Plymouth, students were formally recognised during the college’s annual awards ceremony. The event celebrated academic excellence, vocational achievement and personal development across a wide range of disciplines.

Tutors and guests praised learners for their dedication and resilience, underlining the important role further education plays in supporting the city’s economic future. (P14)

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Plymouth’s performing arts sector also enjoyed success, with Groovement Project Dance Company reflecting on a landmark year.

The dance school collected more than 400 trophies during 2025 and provided 12 students with the opportunity to perform in Los Angeles, including appearances at Disneyland and Universal Studios. The achievements mark significant milestones for both the performers and the wider Plymouth arts community. (P8)

This week, Stoke Ward councillors focused on culture, infrastructure, and education. They celebrated Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy at The Box and its extension into public spaces with four life-size sculptures, supporting Plymouth’s UK City of Culture 2029 bid.

Road safety improvements at Ford Hill and Molesworth Road, including pedestrian crossings and upgraded lighting, were confirmed. Education and SEND provision were also highlighted, with progress noted since the 2023 Ofsted and CQC inspection. Local schools, such as Stoke Damerel and Stuart Road Primary, were praised for supporting better outcomes for children and young people. (P15)

The city also welcomed a visit from Lord Coaker, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence, who met with Luke Pollard MP, Rebecca Smith MP, senior Royal Navy & industry and civic representatives to discuss investment, education and regional growth.

The visit provided an opportunity to highlight Plymouth’s priorities and reinforce its position within the South West. (P11)

Public service recognition came in the form of police dog Tweed’s nomination for a national honour at Crufts. Alongside handler PC Martin King, Tweed has played a pioneering role as Europe’s first digital detection dog, supporting investigations across the UK. The nomination acknowledges years of specialist service and innovation within policing. (P6)

Meanwhile, homelessness charity PATH received a boost after being named NatWest Plymouth’s Charity of the Year. The partnership will deliver fundraising, volunteering and financial guidance initiatives aimed at strengthening support for individuals facing housing insecurity. The collaboration comes at a time of sustained demand for frontline services. (P6)