Dartmouth pupils "dazzle" at National Health Conference in London

A group of pupils from Dartmouth Academy have taken their learning far beyond the classroom, presenting their views on government health policy to leading academics at a national conference in London this term.

The school's Young Persons Advisory Group, who have been working in partnership with researchers from Exeter University’s Medical School for several years, travelled to the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) to share their insights on the government’s calorie labelling policy.

Presenting at the meeting - Dartmouth Academy 

The visit began with a behind-the-scenes tour of LSHTM before the pupils’ delivered a confident and thought-provoking presentation to a room full of academics, both in person and online.

Their contributions were met with enthusiastic praise from university researchers, who commended the group for their insightful and mature reflections.

Following the conference, the group were treated to a cultural tour of London’s most iconic landmarks, including a visit to the Natural History Museum, giving them a memorable and enriching end to an inspiring experience.

Dartmouth Academy 

Nicola Perrott, Assistant Principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “Having our pupils present at a national conference in London was a very proud moment. They spoke with such confidence and maturity, it was clear to everyone in the room, and online, that young people have powerful voices and valuable ideas.

"Opportunities like this go far beyond the classroom. They show pupils that their voice matters and that they can take up space in national conversations."

Dartmouth Academy 

Matthew Shanks, CEO at Education South West, said: "This is a fantastic example of the kind of opportunities we want all young people across our trust to experience. Our students aren’t just learning, they’re engaging with real-world issues, influencing national debate, and seeing how their voices can make a difference.

"We’re incredibly proud of them."