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.

Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Alumni Stories | Meet Chinonso

We are so proud to share the second in a series of seven inspiring alumni videos from Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form.

Chinonso completed the full 7 years at Woolwich Poly before leaving in 2017. He looks back fondly on the amazing teachers, staff, and classmates who went the extra mile and made his journey unforgettable.

Today, he’s thriving as a rail engineer while also building his own gaming agency in his spare time.

Watch his story and see how the Poly spirit continues to inspire!

Woolwich Polytechnic School is delighted to celebrate the outstanding success of former student Kaycee Mbette, who has earned a full football scholarship to Bradfield College, one of the UK’s premier sporting institutions.

Kaycee exemplifies the values of a true Poly Boy - humour, compassion, kindness, and resilience. His exceptional football talent, combined with determination and a positive attitude, has opened doors to opportunities that will last a lifetime.

Reflecting on his journey, Kaycee shared:
"I started Year 11 without a clear idea of what my next step after GCSEs would be. Many said it was too late for a football career, but I stayed strong and kept working hard. When Mr Walsh selected me for a trial at Bradfield College, I was shocked by the facilities and the chance to make it there. A week before my first GCSE exam, I got the call saying a space had opened for a scholarship - I was over the moon! I focused on my exams, worked hard, and shortly after, I was offered a full scholarship."

Kaycee now trains four times a week while studying for his A Levels and has already competed against prestigious colleges such as Eton. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Woolwich Poly staff, especially Mr Walsh, for their unwavering support:
"I will never forget what they have done for me - I couldn’t have done it without them. My message to younger students is simple: never give up and take every opportunity given to you!"

Miss R James, Head of Year: 
"Kaycee has always been the epitome of a Poly Boy. His humour, compassion, kindness, and resilience have shone through in everything he does. His exceptional talent and determination have led him to an incredible scholarship at Bradfield College. We could not be happier for him."

This achievement highlights Woolwich Polytechnic School’s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting students to reach their full potential - both academically and beyond.

As Remembrance Day approaches, we prepare to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and service of all those who have defended our freedoms in times of war and conflict. It is a time for reflection - a moment to remember those who gave their lives, those who returned forever changed, and the generations who continue to carry their legacy.

Across our schools, we are marking this important occasion through assemblies, creative tributes, and moments of silence, encouraging thoughtful engagement and respect.

We are also proud to support the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, with poppies being sold throughout our school communities. This initiative not only raises vital funds but also helps our young people understand the significance of remembrance and the values it represents.

In the lead-up to 11th November, we invite our community to reflect on the values of peace, unity, and gratitude. Let us come together to remember - and to reaffirm our commitment to building a future shaped by compassion and hope.

We will remember them.

Remembrance - Royal British Legion

Take part in Remembrance