This marks the second project we have undertaken with Funding Solutions for Education, following our first collaboration in 2022. We are delighted that this initiative has enabled us to include our newest addition to the Trust, Bannockburn Primary School, which joined us in 2023.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the businesses who chose to support this project and, in doing so, our Trust, our schools, and our vision. Special thanks go to:

• Quick Errands
• Brighter Tuition
• So Fresh So Clean Carpet & Upholstery Ltd
• Jigsaw Arts
• Spartan Website Design
• Jones Real Estate & JRE Travels
• William Johnston Eyecare

We have now received the finished folders and are thrilled with the results. The print and design quality is excellent, and the folders are highly versatile - able to hold multiple booklets and documents. They will be used across PolyMAT, Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form, Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys, Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, and Bannockburn Primary School.

This has been a fantastic project, and we have thoroughly enjoyed working once again with FSE.

PolyMAT’s Canva Highlights

From January to December 2025, we exported 2,444 marketing custom designs from Canva - a 32% increase compared to 1,851 designs in 2024.

That’s an average of 6–7 designs per day, highlighting the scale of our creative output. Each design supports key areas such as social media, newsletters, events, and internal communications - helping us maximise reach and strengthen engagement.

This growth reflects our commitment to creativity and communication across the Trust. Every design plays a part in showcasing our schools’ vibrant communities, celebrating achievements, and keeping families informed and engaged.

Thank you to everyone who contributes to making our content inspiring and impactful. Here’s to continuing this creative momentum in 2026!

We are proud to share that Bannockburn Primary School, one of our schools within the Trust, has achieved first place in the Best Blooming Gardener competition in Royal Greenwich!

This incredible achievement marks the fourth time Bannockburn has entered the competition and secured a winning position - a true reflection of the dedication and teamwork within the school community.

The children and staff have worked tirelessly to nurture and maintain the beautiful garden on the KS1 playground. Their commitment has transformed the space into a vibrant and welcoming environment, and the children are rightly proud of their efforts.

At the Trust, we celebrate opportunities that allow our schools to shine beyond the classroom. This award is a fantastic example of how creativity, collaboration, and care can make a lasting impact.

Congratulations to everyone at Bannockburn for this well-deserved recognition!

The Autumn Budget 2025 has confirmed what many in our community have long hoped for: the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) will be extended to Thamesmead. This landmark decision, backed by Transport for London (TfL), the Greater London Authority (GLA), and the Government, represents a generational investment in connectivity, regeneration, and opportunity for South East London.

For our Trust, which proudly serves two schools in Thamesmead and one in Plumstead, the announcement is more than a transport upgrade - it is a catalyst for educational, social, and economic transformation.

What the DLR Extension Means for Our Schools

• Improved Access for Families and Staff - Thamesmead has long been the only London postcode without a direct rail service. The arrival of the DLR will dramatically improve accessibility for families, staff, and visitors to our schools. Reduced travel times and better connections will make our schools more attractive to prospective families and staff, strengthening recruitment and retention.
• Enhanced Opportunities for Students - Reliable transport links open doors. Our students will gain easier access to cultural, academic, and professional opportunities across London. By connecting our young people to museums, universities, and work placements, the DLR will enrich experiences and fuel aspirations.
• Supporting Regeneration and Growth - Thamesmead is already recognised as one of London’s largest regeneration areas, with plans for new homes, jobs, schools, culture, and green spaces. The DLR extension underlines this potential, ensuring our schools are at the heart of a growing, thriving community. For Plumstead, the ripple effects of regeneration in neighbouring Thamesmead will bring new families, investment, and opportunities.

A Trust Perspective: Building Resilient Communities

As educators, we know that infrastructure shapes lives. The Elizabeth Line has already transformed Woolwich, and we are excited to see similar momentum in Thamesmead. The DLR extension will not only connect our schools more effectively to the rest of London but also reinforce our mission to deliver inclusive, high-quality education in communities that are growing and evolving.

We welcome the Government’s recognition of Thamesmead’s potential. Our schools stand ready to play a central role in this exciting new chapter.

Looking Ahead

Tim Plumb, CEO of PolyMAT, comments: ‘The Trust celebrates this funding commitment as a decisive step toward a brighter future for Thamesmead. For our students, the DLR extension is not just about trains – it is about connection, ambition, and possibility. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Thamesmead: the DLR extension will not only transform transport links but also unlock new possibilities for our students, families, and staff. With this investment, our schools will be better connected, our families better supported, and our young people better prepared to thrive in a changing London. This is about building futures, not just stations.’

The Trust celebrates this funding commitment as a decisive step toward a brighter future for Thamesmead. We look forward to engaging with families, staff, and community partners to maximise the opportunities this project will bring. For our students, the DLR extension is not just about trains - it is about connection, ambition, and possibility.

Every year, from 20th November to 20th December, the UK observes Disability History Month (UKDHM) - a time dedicated to recognising the struggles, achievements, and contributions of disabled people throughout history. Established in 2010, UKDHM shines a light on the ongoing fight for equality and human rights, while encouraging society to challenge ableism and create inclusive spaces for all. 

What Is Disability History Month?

UKDHM is more than a commemorative event; it is a movement. It aims to:

• Celebrate the resilience and achievements of disabled individuals.
• Educate about historical injustices, from institutionalisation to eugenics.
• Advocate for systemic change, ensuring disabled voices lead conversations about rights and inclusion. 

The month also aligns with key international observances such as World AIDS Day (1 Dec), International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 Dec), and Human Rights Day (10 Dec), reinforcing the global nature of disability rights.

Theme for 2025: “Disability, Life and Death”

This year’s theme, Disability, Life and Death, addresses pressing ethical and social questions surrounding assisted dying legislation currently debated in Parliament. Many disabled activists fear that such laws could undermine their right to life, echoing historical prejudices that once justified sterilisation, euthanasia, and exclusion under the guise of “mercy.” 

The theme calls for reflection on:

• The inherent value of disabled lives, as affirmed by Article 10 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

• Historical lessons, from Nazi-era atrocities to the eugenics movement, remind us why vigilance against discriminatory ideologies remain vital.

How Is It Celebrated?

Across the UK, organisations, schools, and communities host:

• Educational events: Panels, lectures, and workshops exploring disability rights history.
• Arts and culture programmes: Exhibitions like the V&A’s Design and Disability showcase the creative contributions of disabled artists. 
• Campaigns and activism: Trade unions, charities, and grassroots groups amplify disabled voices, demanding better access and inclusion in workplaces and public life.
• Digital resources, storytelling projects, and social media campaigns also play a huge role in spreading awareness and fostering dialogue nationwide.

Why It Matters

Disability History Month reminds us that progress is not guaranteed. While landmark laws such as the Disability Discrimination Act (1995) and the Equality Act (2010) have advanced rights, systemic barriers persist. UKDHM is a call to action: to dismantle ableism, prioritise accessibility, and ensure that disabled people are not only included but empowered to lead. 

Get Involved

Visit UKDHM.org for resources, event listings, and educational materials. Whether you attend a local event, share stories online, or advocate for inclusive policies, your participation helps build a society where every life is valued equally.