Josh Williams, Graphics & Reprographics Technician at Gordano School, and his wife Aimee have once again lent their artistic talents to a good cause, designing and painting a Gromit sculpture named ‘Pinewoof’ as part of The Grand Appeal – for the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity. 

The couple created the imaginative piece in their home studio in Weston-super-Mare. Commissioned by the iconic Pinewood Studios, their design paid tribute to decades of cinematic history. The sculpture was also proudly sponsored by Bristol City Council’s Fostering Service. 

Speaking about the project, Josh and Aimee said: 

"We were given a brief by Pinewood Studios to capture the magic that happens there and to show subtle hints to the famous films and shows that have been made there over the years. It was lots of fun, especially getting to hide dinosaurs, aliens and spies all in one sculpture! Pinewoof is definitely the most detailed sculpture we have done for The Grand Appeal, and we spent hundreds of hours getting him just right! The most common response we got about Pinewoof was about how long people spent looking at the details. People especially liked all the hidden elements." 

‘Pinewoof’ went under the hammer for an incredible £20,000, contributing to the £2 million total raised through the trail’s charity auction. This marks the couple’s continued commitment to The Grand Appeal, having supported the charity since 2015.  

Over the years, they’ve helped design four sculptures across three public art trails, collectively raising an impressive £59,500. 

The Grand Appeal funds vital services, equipment, and research at Bristol Children’s Hospital, making a real difference for young patients and their families. 

To support The Grand Appeal, visit: www.grandappeal.org.uk/donate 

This summer, a group of 15 Gordano Sixth Form students – Ellis A, Ben B, Josephine B, Maisie B, Archie B, Emma B, Jack D, Tessa H, Harry L, Clara M, Billy M, Ella M, Yasmine P, Amber S and Tom W – took part in an extraordinary overseas expedition with World Challenge, accompanied by Ms Oakman (Head of Outdoor Education) and Mr Pugh (Head of Geography).

World Challenge describes its expeditions as “transformative school expeditions and educational school trips that empower students, enrich communities, and create lasting global impact” – and our students’ experience lived up to every word.

Over the course of their journey through Mozambique, South Africa and Eswatini, the team took part in a packed and meaningful programme of adventure, conservation, and cultural exchange:

• Marine Conservation in Mozambique – Students worked alongside local organisations in Tofo to protect fragile ecosystems, contributing to research on whale sharks, manta rays and humpback whales, carrying out beach clean-ups, and learning about the threats of overfishing and microplastics.
• Wildlife Initiatives in Eswatini – The group engaged in hands-on conservation projects aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land. Tasks included biodiversity surveys, habitat restoration, and supporting anti-poaching awareness.
• Cultural Exchange – Students visited community projects and local schools, learning first-hand about different ways of life, sharing experiences, and forming connections that will stay with them long after their return.
• Adventure & Trekking – The expedition also included a three-day trek in Malolotja Nature Reserve, testing endurance and teamwork as students camped in remote wilderness and learned to cook over open fires.
• Safari in Kruger National Park – A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Africa’s incredible wildlife, from elephants to lions, in their natural environment.

This was not simply a trip abroad, but a journey of growth. The challenges faced – from navigating new environments to taking responsibility for cooking, budgeting, and leading activities – pushed our students outside their comfort zones and gave them the confidence, resilience, and leadership skills that will last a lifetime.

One student said: ‘Meeting students in Eswatini was amazing. We learned so much from each other. Even though our lives are so different, we connected through shared experiences and laughter.’

Speaking on their return, staff reflected on the immense pride they felt watching Gordano students rise to each challenge with enthusiasm, maturity, and teamwork.

Headteacher Ms Blundell said: ‘We are immensely proud of these students for the way they represented our school and embraced this unique opportunity. Their journey exemplifies the very best of what it means to be a Gordano student – curious, compassionate, and courageous.’

Gordano School has hosted its annual Careers Convention, welcoming hundreds of students and parents for an evening dedicated to exploring future opportunities.

The GoShine Sports Centre and Facilities at Gordano School in Portishead isn’t just for students – it’s a fantastic community facility available for everyone aged 16+.  Go-Shine.uk

It offers:

Affordable Gym Memberships – Starting at just £15/month, with no joining fee or contract.

Unlimited Fitness Classes – Including Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Indoor Cycling, Boxing Fitness, Dance Fitness, and Body Conditioning

Flexible Access – Pay-as-you-go classes for casual users

Sports Facilities for Hire – Badminton, squash, pickleball, table tennis, a full-size floodlit astro pitch, and a 3G 5-a-side court all for hire.

📅 Opening Hours:

• Early Morning Gym: Mon/Wed/Fri 06:30–08:00
• Weekdays: Mon–Thu 16:30–22:00, Fri 15:30–21:00
• Weekends: Sat 08:30–18:00, Sun 08:30–20:00

The centre is managed by GoShine in partnership with Gordano School, ensuring high-quality community engagement and expanding offerings such as holiday clubs and local football training through Portishead Town FC.

You can explore more or book online at GoShine’s official website. Go-Shine.uk

It's fitness made simple, flexible, and local. Ready to shine?

Gordano School is delighted to invite all parents and carers of current and future pupils to An Evening of SEND, taking place on 22 October from 5:30pm – 7:30pm at Gordano School, St Mary’s Road, Portishead, BS20 7QR.

This special event will provide valuable information, guidance and resources for families of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) through access to outside agencies. There is no need to book – simply come along.

The evening will feature a wide range of exhibitors and information stands covering key areas such as:

• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)
• Cognition and Learning
• Sensory and Physical needs
• Communication and Interaction
• Mental Health and Wellbeing
• The EHCP process
• Inclusion and funding opportunities
• Careers pathways
  … and more.

We are delighted to welcome representatives from North Somerset Council, NHS Talking Therapies, Portishead Youth Centre, Wellspring Counselling, JHF Youth Charity, Equine Reflections, and many other local organisations who provide invaluable support to young people and families.

At Gordano, we are proud of our strong SEND provision, designed to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. Our experienced SEND team works closely with families and professionals to create tailored support, from high-quality classroom teaching to personalised interventions. With dedicated spaces and a strong ethos of inclusion across the school, we are committed to meeting a wide range of needs in a nurturing environment.

This Open Evening is the perfect opportunity to:

• Meet staff and discover the support available at Gordano.
• Learn about resources and services that can help your child flourish.
• Connect with other parents and carers in the community.

We warmly welcome all parents and carers who would like to access SEND support and information, whether your child already attends our school or may join us in the future.

Event Details
Date: 22 October 2024
Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Venue: Gordano School, St Mary’s Road, Portishead, BS20 7QR
No booking required – just turn up!

For more information about Gordano School's SEND provision, please visit: www.gordanoschool.org.uk/our-school/send