Welcome to the Lodge Park Academy Newsletter for Week 4 of the Second Autumn Term
We are delighted to share with you another busy, purposeful and highly successful week at Lodge Park Academy. Spirit of Corby Award – Educational Spirit🎉 We are incredibly proud to announce that we have received the Spirit of Corby Awards – Educational Spirit Award at Friday evening’s ceremony. This achievement is both amazing and humbling, recognising the significant developments we have made as a school and, most importantly, the wonderful young people who embody our values every day. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the over 5,000 members of the local community who supported our nomination. This recognition belongs to our whole community, and we are deeply grateful. UK Parliament Week Our focus on democratic education has continued in earnest as part of UK Parliament Week. Throughout the week, students have explored the role of Parliament, representation, and active citizenship. On Thursday, we were honoured to host our Member of Parliament, Lee Barron, who spoke with Year 8 and Year 10 students. He shared insights into his personal political journey, his work in Parliament, and the importance of public service. We were also fortunate to welcome Tom Beattie, who discussed the vital role of both national and local government. His experiences as former Leader of Corby Borough Council gave students a valuable understanding of decision-making at community level. RSHE and Student Safety This week we welcomed Wayne Stevenson, who delivered important and engaging RSHE sessions to our Year 11 students. On Wednesday, our Year 13 students also participated in a focused Driver Safety Assembly to support them as they move toward adulthood and increased independence. House Competition – “I’m a Teacher… Get Me Out of Here!” 🕷️ Thursday brought great excitement as we hosted our house competition inspired by the popular format “I’m a Teacher Get Me Out of Here!” A brave selection of our staff took on an array of challenges involving exotic animals and unusual foods, much to the delight of our students. This event brought energy, laughter and plenty of house spirit to the wee Teaching, Learning and Exam Preparation This is always a demanding time of year, yet our students continue to work exceptionally hard across all key stages. We are especially proud of our Year 11 and Year 13 students, who are now moving ever closer to their summer examinations. Their determination, focus and resilience are evident and commendable. Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our school community. We look forward to sharing more updates with you next week.
Warm regards,
Lodge Park Academy Leadership Team
Spotlight on This Week’s Assemblies: Learning from a Local Leader
This week, our students had the privilege of engaging with one of Corby’s most influential civic figures through a series of insightful assemblies delivered by former Leader of Corby Borough Council, Tom Beattie. With over 30 years of dedication to local politics and leadership of the Borough Council from 2010 to 2021, Tom brought a wealth of experience, knowledge, and personal perspective to our academy community.
During his tenure, Tom played a pivotal role in shaping the modern landscape of Corby. His influence supported major developments including the redevelopment of the Town Centre and the Willow Place complex, as well as the re-introduction of the Corby Railway Station. He also contributed significantly to the creation of the Corby Cube, the development of Corby International Swimming Pool, and the construction of Steel Park Football Stadium. These projects have not only transformed the physical identity of the town but have also enriched opportunities and amenities for local residents.
In his assemblies, Tom spoke in depth about the role and function of national government, emphasising how decisions made in UK Parliament have direct and meaningful impact on local authorities and communities. He highlighted the interconnectedness of national and local decision-making, helping students understand how policy shapes everyday life in towns like ours.
Tom also offered thoughtful guidance on the many pathways into politics for young people. He encouraged our students to appreciate the value of civic engagement and to recognise their potential to influence change—whether through participation in youth forums, community initiatives, or future roles within national or local government. For our students, learning from someone who has contributed so extensively to Corby’s development was both an honour and an inspiration. Tom’s reflections underscored the power of public service and the importance of active citizenship, leaving our young people better informed, empowered, and motivated to consider the role they might one day play in shaping their own communities. We extend our sincere thanks to Tom for giving his time and insight, and for helping our students understand the real-world impact of leadership, representation, and local democracy.
Mr McGeown - Vice Principal
SENECA
Thank you all again for another really positive week of KS4 Seneca Homework. Huge well done to all 'subject setters' for ensuring that work has been uploaded and students are fully engaged. Thanks also to individual teachers for managing, supporting, praising and sanctioning in equal measure.
Thank you once again for your professionalism, encouragement, and unwavering dedication to our students’ success. Keep Up the amazing work!
Mr McGeown - Vice Principal, Quality of Education
Lodge Park Academy Bright Sparx
Each week, our students at LPA, complete maths questions for their homework on Sparx. Some students aswers additional questions, further increasing their mathematical knowledge. The maths team would like to celebrate these students and recognise their dedicated work.
This week, we have also included a parent/carer link to 'A Parent's guide to Sparx maths', which may answer some questions that you might have about how to help your child if they need it.
Help is just a click away - https://sparxmaths.com/parents/
Mrs Irons - Director of Maths
"What Will You Conquer?"
Our Gratitude Tree is redressed each Term, each time connected to a new theme. This academic year in Term 1 we focused on World Heart Day and staff and students made pledges about what they would do moving forward to be more healthy, whether that be exercise or healthier eating habits. This term the students have redressed the tree on the theme of "What will you conquer?" whether that be academically or enrichment wise with aims such as "I wish to conquer my Mock exams", "I wish to conquer my drum lessons", I wish to improve my behaviour" "I wish to do better in my English lessons". It has been lovely to see our students demonstrating their LPA Gratitude.
WANTED - Language Books
We are reaching out to all families that may have books in a language other than English, to help our English as an Additional Language (EAL) students at the academy. If you have any books that you are happy to donate, and you feel they are suitable for our students aged 11 to 16 years, then please drop them off at our Main Reception. Thank you for your Kindness.
Wellbeing, Antibullying, and Diversity Champions
At Lodge Park Academy, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels valued and respected. As part of this commitment, we are proud to introduce our Wellbeing, Antibullying, and Diversity Champions.
These Student Leaders play a vital role in promoting kindness, celebrating diversity, and standing up against all forms of bullying and discrimination. Trained to support their peers, they work closely with staff to raise awareness, lead campaigns, and ensure that every voice is heard.
We believe that empowering students to take an active role in shaping a positive school culture not only strengthens our community but also helps develop confident, compassionate young people. If you could please encourage your child to apply for one of these roles via this email. To view full job description please follow this link below which takes you to the SEN&D page of our Website. The job descriptions are at the bottom of the SEN&D page:
https://www.lodgeparkacademy.co.uk/SEN-D/
YDi-Iorio@LodgeParkAcademy.co.uk
Thank you for your continued support in helping us make Lodge Park Academy a place where everyone can thrive.
Warm regards,
Dr. Steenkamp - Lodge Park Academy Inclusion Team
LPA - Carol Services
Families are warmly invited to support LPA Choir singing carols in the DRET Carol Service at St Peter & Paul in Kettering (5th December 2pm) and at the Columba Church Carol Service (11th Dec 6pm). It's also a great time for students to join our growing choir – just turn up! We meet on Wednesdays after school in the hall until 4.15pm with Mrs Olner, Lucy Murphy (our Musician in Residence) and Rhonda Browne (our fabulous singing teacher).
Mrs Olner - LPA Teacher of Music
LPA House Championship 2025/2026
Goshawk ‘I’m a Teacher Get Me Out of Here’ Champions!
It was an exciting week at LPA this week as staff and students participated in the eagerly anticipated I’m a Teacher Get Me Out of Here! House competition. The competition began with staff indulging in LPA’s Jungle Diner Christmas menu, serving up three bush tucker style courses including Brussel Snouts, Choclick Pudding and Wince Pies, all inspired from classic Christmas foods! Students also had the opportunity to experience the delights of the Jungle Diner with their very own dish, Critter Crackers! All dishes were served with a selection of edible critters – yummy! Next up was the Slime Challenge involving a staff head-to-head race. Staff had to plunge their head into a bucket of slime to remove table tennis balls with their mouth, before transferring 250ml from the bucket into a cylinder. The fastest House was awarded 3 stars. The final competition of the day was the one everyone had been waiting for, Animal Encounters! This event was open to staff and students who, in front of an audience, had to display our LPA Values to handle an array of animals. In many cases for both students and staff this was an opportunity for them to face and overcome one of their fears. Animals included were Coral the Sinaloan Milk Snake, Charlotte the Chilean Rose Tarantula, Wiggly Woo the Giant African Train Millipede, Salt the Giant African Land Snail, Rainbow the Panther Chameleon and Sooty and Sweep the Fancy Rats. Each and everyone showcased tremendous courage and confidence to complete the challenge and earn stars for their House. The winning House was determined by the total amount of stars accumulated across the competition, which were on offer in every challenge. Following some closely contested head to heads it was Goshawk House who won the most stars across the competition and were crowned this year’s I’m a Teacher Get Me Out of Here champions! Kestrel finished in second place, followed by Osprey in third and Red Kite in fourth.
LPA Race Across the Atlantic (Rowvember)
As we approach the end of Rowvember, House teams have been adding those last-minute scores to their House totals in a bid to be crowned 2025 Rowvember champions. It has been a great effort from students and staff across all four Houses so far and the overall House totals will be revealed soon. Results from across the whole month will be revealed next week ahead of House assemblies.
What is the ‘World’s Toughest Row’ - https://www.worldstoughestrow.com/the-atlantic/
LPA House Christmas Party
Tickets to this year’s LPA House Christmas Party (Thursday 18th December) are now on sale. This is a ticketed event and open to all students who have met the LPA behaviour and attendance expectations (Since 3rd November at the start of this term no more than one C3 and no C4s) on a first come first serve basis. Tickets will be on sale from Monday at £4 (£1.50 Free school meals) and will include a full Christmas dinner with all the trimmings plus access to a variety of Christmas games and prize draws in the main hall. Be quick as there are only 200 spaces available in both KS3 and KS4/KS5 party’s (400 places in total across the academy). To secure a space for your child payment must be made via MCAS by Wednesday 10th December. Please NOTE that any students who have raised £20 or more through the Santa Run will be provided with a FREE TICKET and won’t have to pay.
LPA Tutor Group Christmas Tree Competition
It's that time of the year again… Over the next two to three weeks each tutor group will receive their very own Christmas Tree. Each year we run this competition giving each Tutor Groups the opportunity to get in the Christmas spirit between now and the House Christmas party on Thursday 18th December. Tutor Groups are tasked to work together to be as creative as possible and decorate their own trees, which will be presented at the party. House points will be awarded for the top 3 trees, plus bonus points for creativity! We have had some really thoughtful and creative ideas over the years, and I look forward to seeing them again this year. If you have any wonderful theme ideas, be sure to share them with your Tutor!
Careers
Periodically the academy is sent information for current Labour Market Information. Labour Market Information (LMI) refers to data and analysis about jobs, employment, and the economy that helps individuals make informed decisions about their careers and education. It can play an important role in shaping the choices students make about their future career paths. LMI includes insights on employment trends, job availability, in-demand skills, salary ranges, required qualifications, and future job prospects.
Sports Club Timetable
Just a reminder that all after-school clubs finish at 4:10pm. If students would like to take part, please ensure they have their full PE kit.
If students would like to play on the Astroturf during lunchtime, they must bring trainers or football boots. Unfortunately, students will not be allowed on the Astroturf if they do not have the correct footwear.
It's great to see so many students taking part in our Sports Clubs.
Lodge Park Academy - Cadet Force Adult Volunteers
For further information on Lodge Park Academy Combined Cadet Force, please follow the link below: ttps://www.lodgeparkacademy.co.uk/Combined-Cadet-Force/
LPA – Helpful contacts
MASH
Safeguarding concerns 0300 303 1965 Report a concern or request support | Northampton Children's Trust
Childline
Telephone Number: 0800 1111 Childline | Childline
Police (non emergency)
Telephone number: 101
Police (emergency)
Telephone Number: 999
NHS
Telephone number: 111
Young Minds
Mental Health Crisis Support Text: YM to 8528
Online Mental Wellbeing Community
Website: www.kooth.com
Youthworks Mental Health Support
www.youthworksnorthamptonshire.org.uk
Online Health Advice
NGAGE
A free and confidential service providing advice, information, education and structured support to young people in relation to drug and alcohol use https://aquarius.org.uk/our-services/young-peoples-services/northampton-yp/
NDAS
NDAS offer refuge, outreach and groupwork programmes to men and women impacted by domestic abuse. We also support children to recover from the trauma of witnessing the abuse. NDAS offer a 24 hour helpline as well as several drop in services throughout the county. https://www.ndas.co/
Housing Support
Free information and advice to anyone who is homeless or worried about becoming homeless https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/housing-options/housing-advice
SWI UNIFORM SUPPLIER
https://www.lodgeparkacademy.co.uk/docs/term_dates/2025_2026_Academic_Calendar_v1.pdf
Lodge Park Academy Closes - Friday 19th December 2025
Lodge Park Academy Re-Opens -Tuesday 6th January 2026
Lodge Park Academy Closes - Friday 13th February 2026
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Contact Us
Telephone: 01536 203817
Email:
lpa-enquiries@lodgeparkacademy.co.uk Please be aware this mailbox is monitored by a number of individuals, please do not disclose any confidential information.
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