On Friday 18 July, Olive AP Academy – Cambridge was honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal for a special visit recognising the academy’s transformative work with vulnerable young people in the region.
Her Royal Highness was joined by Mrs Julie Spence OBE CStJ QPM, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire. During the visit, they toured the academy and observed pupils engaging in a range of lessons including art, maths, cookery, and English. The visit culminated in a thoughtful discussion with Year 11 pupils, who shared their personal experiences and spoke about how Olive Academies has raised their aspirations for exams and post-16 choices.
The visit highlighted the academy’s commitment to building strong community links that support vulnerable pupils in accessing new pathways and brighter futures. Olive AP Academy – Cambridge works with a wide range of local organisations, including Cambridge United Foundation, The British Racing School, The Junction Music, Bodyworks Dance, and Gauntlet Auto Project, among others.
These partnerships, combined with the academy’s innovative onsite curriculum, are having a transformative effect. Pupils are now accessing post-16 education opportunities that were once beyond reach—environments where they can continue to thrive and build on the confidence and skills nurtured at Olive Academies. The academy’s work is increasingly recognised by leaders across the city for its role in reshaping futures.
Speaking after the visit, Mrs Julie Spence OBE CStJ QPM, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, said:
“It was brilliant to be able to facilitate the visit of Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to Olive Academies, Cambridge. Their visionary approach with their local partners to creating meaningful opportunities for young people from vulnerable backgrounds is truly commendable. My sincere thanks to all involved for their dedication to transforming young people’s lives and for making us all so welcome today.”
Mark Kirby, Head of Academy at Olive AP Academy – Cambridge, added: “We were incredibly proud to showcase the achievements of our pupils and the strength of our partnerships. This visit was a powerful recognition of the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and community collaborators.”
Olive AP Academy – Cambridge has become a beacon of excellence in alternative provision, thanks to the strength of its partnerships and the unwavering commitment of its staff and supporters. The academy is especially grateful for the continued support of Mrs Julie Spence, whose dedication to the city of Cambridge and its most vulnerable young people remains invaluable.