Careers Fair 2026

Today at Devonport High School for Boys we were delighted to host our annual Careers Fair, welcoming a wide range of employers, training providers, universities, and public services into school for a full day of engagement with our students.

The Colonnade was once again transformed into a vibrant hub of opportunity, with students across year groups taking time to speak directly with representatives, ask questions, and explore the full range of post-16 and post-18 pathways available to them. The atmosphere throughout the day was purposeful and enthusiastic, with students showing real curiosity about their future options and the world of work.

We are extremely grateful to all of the organisations who gave their time and expertise to support the event. Opportunities like this are only possible through strong partnerships, and it was fantastic to see such a breadth of sectors represented—from engineering and healthcare to education, public service, finance, construction, and the creative industries.

Our sincere thanks go to: Access Creative College, Arts University Plymouth, Babcock International, British Army, Callywith College, City College Plymouth, Discovery College, Duchy College, Dynamic Adventures, Exeter Maths School, Falmouth University, Food Waste Plymouth, HM Land Registry, Hoare Lea, James Hallam Ltd, Ministry of Defence, MPCT Plymouth, Plymouth Citybus, Plymouth Community Homes, RSP Rail Signalling and Power, Royal Air Force, Skills Group, TC Bromhead Ltd, The King's Trust, The London School of Economics and Political Science, University of Bath, University of Exeter, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Westcotts.

A special thank you also goes to all staff who supported the organisation and smooth running of the day, and to our students, who represented the school brilliantly through their engagement, maturity, and thoughtful questions.

Events like this are a key part of our commitment to delivering a rich and meaningful careers programme at DHSB. They help students connect their learning to real-world pathways and see clearly the range of possibilities available to them beyond school.

It was a fantastic day, and we are already looking forward to building on its success in the future.  If you'd like to attend the 2027 Careers Fair at DHSB, please email careers@dhsb.org

Mr Scott

Leader of Careers & PSHE

Investors in Careers assessment

This week, Devonport High School for Boys had the pleasure of hosting our Investors in Careers assessment, an important milestone in recognising the strength and maturity of our careers provision.

It was a real privilege to welcome the assessor, Nicki Young, who spent the day meeting a wide range of stakeholders across the school.  These conversations gave a clear insight into how deeply careers education is embedded into everyday life at Devonport High School for Boys, from classroom practice to enrichment, pastoral support, and leadership.

What stood out most throughout the day was not just the strength of individual initiatives, but the consistency of approach across the school. Careers development here is not a standalone programme - it is woven into the fabric of what we do.  Students are encouraged to think about their futures early, revisit and refine those ideas often, and access meaningful encounters with employers, further education providers, and higher education pathways.

That level of consistency does not happen by chance. It is the result of sustained effort, collaboration, and commitment from staff across all departments. Whether through subject teaching, tutor time, enrichment activities, or dedicated careers events, there is a shared understanding that preparing students for their next steps is everyone’s responsibility. The culture that has developed is genuinely positive and purposeful, and it reflects the care staff have for students’ long-term success.

We are also grateful for the professionalism and engagement shown by all stakeholders who contributed to the assessment day.  Students spoke confidently and thoughtfully about their aspirations, staff shared practice openly, and partners reinforced the strength of the school’s external links.

We now await the outcome of the assessment next week, and of course we are hopeful for a strong result.  Whatever the outcome, the process itself has been a valuable opportunity to reflect on how far the programme has come and to recognise the collective effort that continues to drive it forward.

Fingers crossed for DHSB.

Mr Scott

Leader of Careers & PSHE

From Codebreakers to Cyber Futures: 20 Students Explore Innovation in London

Twenty students with a keen interest in computing, cyber security and emerging technologies recently took part in an inspiring educational visit to London, designed to bring classroom learning to life and provide a glimpse into future careers in the digital world.  The trip combined history, innovation and industry, taking students from the birthplace of modern computing to some of today’s most influential technology organisations.

Our first major stop was Google HQ in London, where students had the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of one of the world’s leading technology companies. Through talks and discussions, they explored the wide range of careers available across technology - from software engineering and cyber security to product design, artificial intelligence and data science. Students gained valuable insight into how collaboration, creativity and problem solving underpin modern digital industries.

The visit then shifted focus from the future to the foundations of computing at Bletchley Park and The National Museum of Computing. Walking through the historic site where wartime codebreakers changed the course of history gave students a powerful understanding of how computation and cryptography have shaped the world we live in today.

Students explored the stories of pioneering thinkers and saw first-hand the machines and innovations that laid the groundwork for modern computing and cyber security. Seeing systems that evolved from room-sized machines into the devices and networks we use every day helped students connect their studies with the wider story of technological progress.

At The National Museum of Computing, students experienced a unique journey through computing history - from early processing systems through to interactive exhibits demonstrating how advances in technology continue to accelerate. Discussions naturally turned towards cyber security, digital resilience and the importance of ethical innovation in a connected world.

The group also visited the Science Museum, where exhibits challenged students to think critically about how science and technology continue to transform society. Whether exploring communications, engineering, space or digital development, students were encouraged to ask questions and consider the opportunities and responsibilities that come with technological advancement.

A particular highlight of the trip was the opportunity to engage with BT Aurora, where students explored the future of connectivity, digital infrastructure and innovation. The experience demonstrated how large-scale networks operate and highlighted the growing importance of cyber security in protecting critical services and supporting modern life.

Across the visit, students demonstrated curiosity, maturity and enthusiasm. Conversations ranged from encryption and AI to pathways into technology careers and the skills employers value most.

Trips like these are an important reminder that careers in computing and cyber are not confined to writing code - they involve creativity, teamwork, communication and solving real-world challenges.

For many students, this experience offered more than simply visiting iconic locations; it provided inspiration and a clearer picture of where their interests in computing, cyber security and technology could take them in the future.

A huge thank you to all the staff and organisations involved in making the visit possible and for helping our students see the possibilities that lie ahead.

Mr Scott

Head of Computer Science

DHSB Proud to Become a Digital Schoolhouse

Students at Devonport High School for Boys are set to benefit from a major expansion of the school’s Esports provision, marking an exciting step forward in digital learning, leadership, and competitive gaming opportunities.

The school has recently developed a dedicated Esports environment equipped with four large high-definition screens, two Xbox Series X consoles, a PlayStation 5, and a Nintendo Switch 2. This upgraded facility allows students to experience high-quality competitive gaming in a structured, team-focused setting, designed to support both engagement and skill development.

Esports at DHSB is about far more than gaming. It provides students with opportunities to develop teamwork, communication, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience - skills that are highly valued across both education and future careers.  Whether competing in structured matches, analysing gameplay, or taking on leadership roles within teams, students are encouraged to think strategically and work collaboratively.

DHSB is now officially part of the Digital Schoolhouse programme, a national initiative supported by the UK games industry and delivered in partnership with organisations such as Digital Schoolhouse.  The programme aims to inspire young people through play-based learning while also strengthening computing education.  It connects schools with the creative and technical world of the games industry, offering students insight into careers in game design, development, marketing, broadcasting, and beyond.  We are looking forward to working with local primary schools and engaging them in playful computing.

As part of this development, DHSB will also be offering an Esports Level 2 Leadership course from September.  This qualification is designed to give students formal recognition of the leadership and organisational skills developed through Esports.  Students will learn how to lead teams, manage competitions, support event delivery, and develop coaching strategies, all while building confidence and responsibility in a fast-paced, competitive environment - as well as work with our primary partners in supporting the Digital Schoolhouse programme.

The introduction of this course, alongside the upgraded facilities, positions DHSB at the forefront of Esports education locally.  It reflects a wider commitment to innovative learning opportunities that engage students and prepare them for the evolving digital world.

With growing interest in Esports both in education and the wider professional industry, this provision offers students a unique chance to develop real-world skills in a modern and exciting context - whether their future lies in gaming, technology, media, or leadership.

Mr Scott

Head of Computer Science

Success at the Engineering Careers Competition

Mrs Wright and Mr Scott recently attended the Devon & Cornwall Exhibition and Awards Ceremony at the University of Plymouth’s Roland Levinsky Building, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and engineering talent of young people from across the region.

A group of students from Devonport High School for Boys had entered the “If You Were An Engineer” competition, a regional initiative designed to showcase imaginative and problem-solving ideas from pupils in schools across Devon and Cornwall.  The event, held on Tuesday 30th June, brought together shortlisted, highly commended, and winning entries for a public exhibition followed by a formal awards ceremony.

The exhibition provided an inspiring opportunity to explore a wide range of inventive engineering designs. Students’ work was displayed alongside projects from other schools, highlighting the remarkable creativity and technical thinking of young people in the region. The event also offered the chance to speak with engineering professionals and learn more about real-world applications of design and innovation.

Following the exhibition, guests attended the awards ceremony, where pupils were recognised for their achievements in front of special guests and industry representatives. The atmosphere was celebratory and showcased the importance of encouraging engineering thinking at an early stage.

We are incredibly proud to share that three DHSB students reached the final round of the competition, an outstanding achievement in itself given the high standard of entries from across the South West.  Even more impressively, Vikhat Rajaraman was named the overall winner, a fantastic accomplishment that reflects both creativity and technical excellence.

Mrs Wright and Mr Scott were extremely impressed with the quality of the students’ ideas and presentations.  The standard of work demonstrated not only strong engineering understanding but also originality, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate ideas effectively. It was clear that DHSB students stood out among a very competitive field of entries.

Events such as this highlight the importance of computer science, engineering and design education in inspiring the next generation of innovators.  They also demonstrate the value of giving students opportunities to engage with real-world challenges and showcase their talents beyond the classroom.

We would like to congratulate all three finalists for representing the school so well, and offer a special congratulations to Vikhat Rajaraman for his well-deserved success as overall winner.

The competition and exhibition were fully funded by national and regional partners and delivered in collaboration with Primary Engineer and Leaders Award, who continue to support schools in developing engineering skills and inspiring future careers in STEM.

Mr Scott

Leader of Careers & PSHE

Sparx Maths and Sparx Reader

Each week we celebrate our highest performers in both Sparx Maths and Sparx Reader, two of our core homework platforms. We are proud of all of our students who complete their homework each week to such a high standard but these students deserve a special mention.

Congratulations!

Year 12 students Dan, Elyas, Shea, Jake, Toby and Ciaran recently ran the Burrator Horseshoe Race which is part of the Dartmoor Fell Runner Series. The 10K race with 1000 feet of elevation, starts and finishes in Meavy and sees runners make their way up Sheep's Tor and Gutter Tor. The group completed the run because they are passionate about exercise and were excited to spend the day together on beautiful Dartmoor.

Congratulations on your effort.

Year 7 student Patrick, took his grade 4 Trombone exam on Tuesday and received a distinction!

The trombone is centuries old and is a member of the brass family of instruments and is unique as instead of having valves like the rest of the brass instruments, the trombone uses a metal slide to change the sounds. Patrick has been playing the Trombone for four years.

Well done!

Summer Fair project: Homemade greetings cards!

For their Summer Fair project, a few of our Sixth Form students are creating homemade greetings cards. They will have a display on the day with different designs, however they would like to give you the opportunity beforehand to purchase customised cards which are more unique to you. If you are interested in this, scan the QR code below to fill out a google form with the details about your requested card/s. Prices will be £3.50 for one card, or £6.00 for two. They can only take cash payments, so will be taking payment for the orders on the day at their stall.

Cricket

Our Year 8 cricketers progressed to the Devon Cup final after a convincing win against Torquay Boys Grammar on Tuesday. After bowling first and reducing Torquay to 119 from their 20 overs, DHSB chased it down comfortably for the loss of just 3 wickets and with 3 overs still remaining, thanks to contributions from the top order and a fantastic innings from Yasser who regularly found the boundary.

We wish them all the best in the final on Monday afternoon.