A RECENT visit to Combe Pafford school by members of Rotary Newton Abbot sparked a wave of generosity and collaboration, culminating in several meaningful contributions to the school and the wider community.

The event began with Rotary Corporate members Amanda James and Sandra Murphy from Torbay & District Funeral Services joining Rotary President Jane Camp and five other Rotarians for an insightful tour of the school.

Over coffee, they engaged in conversation with Head Teacher Sally Banfield and Business Manager Jane Clements.

This informal gathering soon blossomed into a series of exceptional outcomes.

Sandra Murphy shared a touching account of her daughter, Coral, who attended Combe Pafford during her secondary school years and the first year of sixth form.

Coral’s journey was shaped by the school’s commitment to practical learning, including a successful work placement at Sainsbury’s, which later led to full-time employment at B&Q.

Coral’s story stands as a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and its ability to empower students with special needs to thrive in the wider world.

Torbay & District Funeral Services, located just a stone’s throw from Combe Pafford in St. Marychurch, pledged funding to purchase a much-needed second defibrillator for the school’s sports area.

Rotary Newton Abbot further supported the school by arranging the delivery of two sturdy garden picnic tables, providing students with a welcoming space to enjoy lunchtimes outdoors.

Demonstrating the school’s spirit of giving, Combe Pafford’s Horticultural Section then paid a visit to the Meadowside Charity in Newton Abbot where they undertook the task of tidying the gardens.

Rotarian Martin Smith shared his personal connection to the school, noting that his grandson, Charlie Lawlor, is currently a student at Combe Pafford.

‘Combe Pafford has been fantastic for Charlie,’ Martin said.

‘Despite his challenges, he is growing in confidence’, Martin added.