An open evening for prospective year five and six students at Camborne Science and International Academy attracted a huge number of youngsters and their parents.

“As the top performing state school in Cornwall for the third year running, we’re incredibly proud of our academy,” said principal Ian Kenworthy. “We were delighted to see so many prospective young people interested in being a part of our community and the exciting things which happen here every day.”

Year 11 prefects guided visitors around the site and CSIA students helped in each faculty area, speaking of their experiences and giving insight to life at the school.

“Our younger visitors were able to explore each subject area, taking part in different activities to provide a really interactive and engaging tour,” said vice principal Mark Fenlon. “The whole evening had a palpable buzz with so many young people excited and enthralled about starting secondary education.”

From constructing a Viking longboat in history to discovering foods from around the world, visitors experienced subjects in new ways. “We had so much fun supporting geography, we tested our visitors’ knowledge of fruits, herbs and spices and what countries they originate from,” said Sydney Cutler in year eight. “What made it even better was telling the visitors that CSIA hosts international trips to nearly all of the countries we talked about."

The academy’s international and enrichment programmes were particularly popular on the evening, with prospective students keen to find out more. “We are renowned for our extensive global networks across the world which our visitors were very eager to learn about,” said Mr Fenlon. “Education extends far beyond the classroom at CSIA and we inspire all of our students to become global citizens.”

Mr Kenworthy added: “Our open evening showcased that our academy’s success isn’t solely based on excellent exam results. Prospective students discovered that through excellent pastoral care, an array of extra-curricular and enriching activities, they will be equipped with the confidence and life-skills to thrive.

"There was a real ‘buzz’ about the evening, allowing those in attendance to meet our smart and enthusiastic students, the passionate staff and to experience our outstanding facilities and unique positive ethos, all of which make us the school of choice in our local community and beyond.”