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Headteacher
Chris Coyle-Chislett

Email the Office
secretary@penpol.cornwall.sch.uk

Telephone Number
01736 753472

Our Address
2 St George’s Road, Hayle,
Cornwall, TR27 4AH

“Penpol pupils are curious, creative and courageous learners. Our school community believes in authenticity as the foundation of deep-rooted learning. Through our rich and relevant curriculum, we nurture community-minded, forward-facing international citizens of the future.”
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History

Penpol Remembers

This week, our school and wider community came together to mark Remembrance Day, honouring those who served in wars past and present. In the days leading up to November 11th, our Year 6 pupils took part in a range of special activities across different subjects to help us understand and reflect on the importance of remembrance.

In English, children learned the famous World War I poem In Flanders Fields by John McCrae. They discussed the poem’s meaning, imagery and the emotions it evokes. Pupils were inspired to write their own thoughtful poems about the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in WWI.

Meanwhile, in Art, pupils created striking pictures of poppy fields, soldiers, and scenes from wartime, showing great care and creativity.

In Design and Technology, children designed and sewed their own red poppies, carefully stitching the petals and leaves to create beautiful symbols of remembrance.

   

   

On Remembrance Day itself, the whole year group walked together to the Hayle War Memorial. We joined members of the local community to take part in a two-minute silence at 11 o’clock. It was a moving and respectful moment as we stood quietly, remembering those who gave their lives for our freedom.

   

Our Remembrance Day activities helped everyone to think deeply about history, sacrifice, and gratitude — and to understand why it is so important to remember.

An Exciting Visit from Our Local Heroes: Ben and Ben, the Firefighter Men!

After a real-life emergency our two local Firefighter heroes re-arranged their visit to come to visit Year 1 on the last day before half-term.

On Wednesday, the Year 1 children at Penpol School had a very special visit from two real-life firefighters! The children were thrilled to meet these local heroes and learn all about what firefighters do to help keep everyone safe.

The children were amazed to discover how heavy the equipment is and how quickly firefighters have to put it on during an emergency. Everyone listened carefully as the Bens explained what to do if there’s ever a fire — Get out, stay out, and call 999!

Loud cheers filled the air as the children eagerly listened to the blaring siren. A sea of smiles spread across the playground as everyone gathered to explore the big red fire engine. Each child had the opportunity to climb aboard and experience what it’s like inside the cabin.

The firefighters then provided an informative demonstration, explaining some of the various tools and equipment used in their daily work. The children learnt about the importance of fire safety and the vital role firefighters play in keeping the community safe. They asked thoughtful questions, such as, “Where does the water come from?” Many questions were enthusiastically centred around ladders! Year 1 listened carefully to the answers, showing great curiosity and excitement throughout the visit.

They learnt so much about fire safety and had a fantastic time meeting their local heroes. A huge thank you to Firefighters Ben and Ben for visiting Penpol School and teaching us how we can stay safe.

Year 2 Storm Pendennis for a day of History and fun!!

On Tuesday, 21st October, Year 2 enjoyed an exciting and educational trip to Pendennis Castle in Falmouth. The children travelled by coach and were full of anticipation as they prepared to explore one of Cornwall’s most historic landmarks.

On arrival, pupils were impressed by the castle’s towering stone walls and impressive sea views. They learned that Pendennis Castle was built by King Henry VIII to defend the Cornish coast from invasion. Throughout the visit, the children spotted the features of the castle they had learnt about in the classroom, bringing their learning to life. The children were able to climb to the top of the keep, where they were rewarded with panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

The children also took part in a hands-on activity, exploring artefacts from Tudor times, learning about their uses and helping them to understand life in the past.

Quotes from the children:

‘This is the best day ever, I got to see canons’

‘I can see the arrow slits’

‘The portcullis was to stop invaders’

Magic on the Mount

On  Wednesday, 24th September 2025 and Thursday, 25th September 2025, Classes 5 and 6 embarked upon magical and memorable trips to St Michael’s Mount as part of their Autumn Term topic, ‘Who’s the King of the Castle?’

Pupils enjoyed a 5-minute boat ride across the water to the island as they didn’t fancy the long swim.

We were greeted at the harbour by Kerry Rice, the Education Officer for St Aubyn Estate, who led us on a magical journey through time as we explored the historic beauty of St Michael’s Mount.

On the short but steep hike up the Mount, we discovered the ‘Giant’s Well’, where Kerry captivated the children’s imaginations with the legend of Cormoran the Giant. We learned about the story of a tyrannical giant who once lived on the Mount and how he was defeated by a local boy called Jack.

Further up the Pilgrim’s Steps, children discovered the Giant’s Heart within the cobbled path. Legend has it that if you place your toe on this magical stone, then you can feel Cormoran’s heartbeat in your chest!

Finally, we reached the castle at the top of the Mount, where the stone fortifications, battlements and canons immediately brought this period of medieval history to life. Kerry taught us the chronology of the mount’s use through time, going back over 3000 years from early Bronze Age artefacts to its use as a monastery, to the castle’s construction following the Norman Conquest of Britain.

As we explored the inside of the castle, children discovered an abundance of fascinating artefacts scattered throughout the castle’s intricate maze of rooms and buildings, including a mysteriously large leather jug and the entrance to a hidden chamber, where a 7-foot skeleton was once discovered!

After descending the steep and uneven path back down the mount, we had certainly earned a good lunch.  One final treat was in store, as Kerry led a wonderful drama activity in which they acted out the story of Cormoran the Giant – complete with an authentic blast of a horn from Kerry!

By the afternoon, the tide had gone out,  revealing the beautiful cobblestone causeway that connects the island to the mainland. We walked back along the beach and enjoyed the minibus journey back to school, minds full of the history and magic of St Michael’s Mount.

War Declared For Year 6!

86 years to almost the day since thousands of children and vulnerable young people were evacuated from cities across the country during World War II, our Year 6 children had a go themselves. As an immersive launch to our Autumn Term topic ‘Wartime and Peace’, the children (and adults!) dressed in period clothing and experienced life as evacuees for the day.

After being met at the gates by two of the newest members of the Penpol Division of the British Forces and our very own Land Girls, they waved a teary goodbye to their parents before heading off to the train station. They were then subjected to a roll call and squeezed into cramped school classrooms — much like the evacuees of 1939 would have been when they departed the trains, albeit with far less jeopardy!

Once settled, the children had the chance to act in character and meet their fellow evacuees, discussing the contents of their suitcases and their preferred destinations. They also explored and played traditional 1940s games before taking some time to research and better understand the process of Operation Pied Piper. Later, they wrote some touching postcards home eve, created some Blitz inspired art and even transported their evacuee selves digitally into a 1939 scene using some clever iPad tricks!

After a ration-free lunch, the children got to grips with the challenges of wartime rationing by trying some home cooking, following a handed-down ration recipe to make delicious scones. Many were surprised to see — and later taste — the limited sugar available during the war!

The evacuation of Year 6 lasted far less time than those of World War II and ended with much greater success. Unlike the wartime generation, all children returned to their homes — none left behind — but not before parents were invited into class to share the day’s work and sample some of the sugar-free scones on offer!

Year 2’s High Seas Adventure Aboard the Galeón Andalucía!

On a bright and breezy morning, Year 2 set off on an unforgettable trip to visit the Galeón Andalucía — a magnificent replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon. The adventure began with an exciting train journey from Hayle to Penzance, filled with chatter and anticipation.

After arriving at Penzance station, the children walked together to the harbour, where the towering masts of the Galeón Andalucía came into view. Everyone was amazed by the size and beauty of the ship, with its tall sails and wooden decks that looked just like something out of a pirate story.

The Galeón Andalucía is no ordinary ship. It’s a faithful replica of the famous Spanish galleons that, between the 16th and 18th centuries, set sail from the Andalusian coast to explore and connect the world. These ships navigated the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, American coasts, and the vast Pacific, serving as vital links between continents for more than 300 years.

Built in Punta Umbría, Spain, with meticulous historical accuracy, the Galeón Andalucía stretches an impressive 55 metres in length and features six decks made from iroko and pine wood. With seven sails covering nearly 1,000 square metres, it is both a marvel of craftsmanship and a floating museum of maritime heritage. Over the years, it has visited ports across four continents — from London and New York to Shanghai and Manila — proudly showcasing Spanish seafaring culture.

During their visit, the children enjoyed a guided tour of the ship, exploring everything from the captain’s quarters to the gun deck and even into the ship’s hold. The tours were led by the galleon’s very own crew: a team of Spanish sailors who live and breathe life on the galleon.

After the tour, our Year 2 pupils delighted locals and tourists at the harbour by performing a cheerful selection of sea shanties. Their enthusiastic singing brought smiles to many faces and added a joyful note to the busy quayside.

It was a day full of learning, laughter, and music — one that will surely be remembered by all. A huge thank you to the staff, crew, and helpers who made the trip possible. Year 2’s voyage into maritime history was truly a treasure!

All Aboard! Year 2 Explore Mounts Bay

 

As part of our 360° curriculum offer, Year 2 pupils took to the water this week for some exciting educational adventures around Mounts Bay with Marine Discovery Tours. Classes 5 and 6 boarded boats at Penzance Harbour and set off on journeys packed with wildlife, history, and hands-on geography learning.

These boat trips gave our pupils a chance to explore the Cornish coastline from a whole new perspective. The young explorers climbed aboard the Shearwater II, before travelling southwest from Penzance towards the fishing village of Mousehole, stopping to admire St Clement’s Isle and the mysterious Mousehole Cave.

 

As we sailed, pupils used compass directions to describe their route, as well as identifying human and physical geographical features along the coast.

The trip wasn’t just scenic—it was full of wildlife wonders! Pupils were thrilled to spot grey seals sunbathing on the rocks, graceful gannets diving for fish, and even shearwaters gliding over the waves. Resident seal expert, Josh, shared his expertise on grey seals, allowing pupils to see and touch real seal fur and even a seal’s skull!

To the delight of one lucky group, a pod of playful dolphins swam alongside the boat!

“It was amazing to see the dolphins,” said one Year 2 pupil. “They were so fast and playful—it was like they were racing us!”

In between sightings, the pupils kept spirits high by singing traditional sea shanties and learning all about the rich history of Mounts Bay. Stories of smugglers, pirates, and hidden caves captured everyone’s imagination and helped bring our local coastline to life.

Once out past the protective cliffs to the west of Mounts Bay, the sailed were hoisted as we set a course back towards Penzance, with the boat being steered by our seafaring Year 2 pupils.

These trips were a perfect opportunity to bring classroom learning to life through real-world experiences. A big thank you to Marine Discovery and to all the staff and helpers who made these experiences such a success.

It’s safe to say that these boat trips will be one of the standout memories of Year 2!

Reception’s Sea-Faring Adventure at the Maritime Museum!

The Reception classes had a truly magical and memorable day at the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth.

I weared a cloak, it made us see Oshi and the grown ups didnt see Oshi because they didnt have a cloak – Georgie

We looked at the waves and the surfboards and we saw Oshi. She showed us treasure – Zuri

We followed a trail of clues to discover the whereabouts of a mysterious sea sprite named Oshi, who came from the legendary lost land of Lyonesse. Donning our magical cloaks, we followed the fishy path that led us beneath the waves to find her. Oshi told us how a great storm once swept her out to sea, and how the mighty waves rose up and swallowed her homeland beneath the ocean. The children learned that Lyonesse is a mythical land once said to lie between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly—lost forever beneath the waves in a single night.

We never put plastic bottles in the sea because then the mermaids will not like it, the rubbish will need to go in the bin – Autumn

With the children’s help, Oshi retold her tale using musical instruments to create the sounds of the sea—the whooshing wind, crashing waves, and rumbling thunder. It was a fantastic way to bring the story to life!

I saw a cannon ball and I saw a submarine window and I saw money, Oshi found them in sea, in where the sand was at the bottom of the sea – Arthur

Oshi also showed us some fascinating treasures she’d discovered on the ocean floor: a real whale’s tooth, a piece of shipwrecked wood, and even a heavy cannon ball! The children were amazed by these mysterious objects from the deep.

We then explored the Boat Hall, where we examined all the different parts of boats—sails, hulls, the mast and more. Inspired by what we saw, the children designed, built, and sailed their very own mini-boats on the museum’s boating pond. It was great fun watching them test their creations and see which ones floated the best!

We saw lots of boats there, we made boats and we sailed them in the water – Eliza

I loved going in the lifeboat, I had a life helmet – Ella

Afterward, we explored the surfing exhibition, where we learned all about Cornwall’s surfing history and culture. We saw old wooden surfboards, wetsuits through the ages, and even a huge board once used in big wave competitions!

I liked the skateboards, I got a skateboard at home. I like the sea – Christopher

A trip up the Look Out Tower gave us stunning views across Falmouth Harbour. We spotted some enormous and very expensive-looking sailboats and yachts. The children enjoyed using the binoculars to take a closer look at all the boats coming and going.

I liked the Captain American surf board. I saw a really big boat, there were 3 little boats on the side of the big boats, lifeboats – Jack

Finally, we ended the day with big excitement in the RNLI Rescue Zone, where the children got hands-on with life as a sea rescuer. They rode on jet skis, rescue boats, and even climbed aboard a life raft—learning how the RNLI helps people stay safe at sea.

I really liked when we went in the boats. I really liked going in the big orange boat because it was really fancy. It was a circle it goes out to sea with lifeguard in it and makes sure everyone is OK – Jackson

It was a day packed with stories, adventure, and discovery—Reception had a brilliant time and left with a boatload of memories! We would like to say a big thank you to Seth, Marilyn and Fiona at the museum for making our visit so much fun.

Plastic pollution is so bad and it will make animals really sick and sometimes so poorly they could die. We could pick the pollution up off the beaches – Esme

Step into the World of ‘Swop’: A Virtual Author Visit with Lucy Noguera!

Year 1 had an exciting and engaging virtual author visit with Lucy Noguera today, where they had the special opportunity to meet the inspiration behind the main character of her books, Swop!

The children were full of fascinating questions for Lucy, such as, “How long did it take you to write Swop: The Daring Dinosaur Detective?” and “What inspired you to create these characters?”

Lucy took us on a journey through her creative process, sharing insights from the very first spark of an idea to the moment her books were published.

We’re now eagerly awaiting our delivery of Dyslexia-friendly copies, which will be a fantastic addition to our school library’s dyslexia section.

A huge thank you to Lucy Noguera for such an inspiring visit! We’re excited to get started on the special Science detective mission you set for us, linked to our Digging for Dinosaurs topic. We can’t wait to put our detective skills to the test!

 

Here’s a wonderful creative drawing by one of our talented students, inspired by Swop, now proudly displayed in our Class 4 book corner! What a fantastic way to bring the story to life! 🌟📚

Reception Children’s Magical Adventure at the Minack Theatre

I was the queen fairy and I was in love with a donkey – Jackson

Our Reception children have embarked on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking Minack Theatre for a singing, dancing, and performing workshop. The experience was a playful and immersive exploration of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, filled with music, movement, and storytelling.

We went to the Minack Theatre. I was a builder and we also did super heros. We had to save the day – Tristan

 

Led by the lively and engaging Wenna White, Betty Blue and Ryan Red, the children were transported into the magical world of fairies, kings and queens, builders, and even a donkey! Through song and dance, they brought Shakespeare’s enchanting story to life, stepping into the roles of characters and embracing the spirit of the play.

I was a fairy. We saw the dressing room. We had to collect magic dust. We had to be naughty with it and spread it over the builders and the princess and the donkey ee-or – Esme

 

The adventure didn’t stop there! As well as performing, the children had the chance to explore the stunning Minack Theatre and its beautiful gardens. They learned about the theatre’s fascinating history and how the remarkable Rowena Cade built it with her own hands. A real highlight was going backstage, where the children got a glimpse of where the performers prepare before stepping onto the famous stage.

I was being the prince – Ava, I was being the queen – Flora, I was being a fairy and I falled in love with a donkey – Georgie

The day ended with a special performance on the Minack’s stage, where the children showcased everything they had learned.

It was a magical and memorable experience for all, sparking creativity and excitement about theatre and performance.

A huge thank you to the Minack Theatre team for giving our children such an incredible opportunity. Who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll see some of them return as future stars of the stage!