Welcome to Week Two at Lodge Park Academy
Dear Families,
This week has been another fantastic demonstration of the ambition, aspiration, respect, resilience, courage, and gratitude that define our Academy community. Students have continued their excellent start to the academic year, embracing new challenges with energy and determination.
It has also been a week rich in parental engagement and community spirit. Our Year 6 into 7 Open Evening on Tuesday provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase the significant developments across the Academy over the past 12–18 months and the positive impact these are having on our learners. The school was alive with excitement, and it was a pleasure to welcome so many parents, many visiting us for the first time.
On Wednesday, we hosted a SEND parent and carer coffee afternoon, and on Thursday evening, we welcomed families of our Year 11 students to an Information Evening, offering crucial guidance and support as they begin this vital stage in their education.
In addition, assemblies this week have focused on two key themes: mental health, delivered thoughtfully by Mr Elhasboaui, and our Academy values, explored by our Heads of House. We also launched our first House competition of the year with the Limbo Challenge, which was met with great enthusiasm.
Finally, huge congratulations to our students for their outstanding engagement with our new homework policy. We are proud to share that Lodge Park Academy ended the week as the most engaged school within the Trust, and the leading school across East Northamptonshire for Seneca activity
Thanks for your continued support
Warm regards,
Lodge Park Academy Leadership Team
Year 10 Parent Information Evening 2025 – Thursday 25th September 6-7pm
We would like to invite you to our Year 10 Parent Information Evening, which will take place in the main hall of the school on Thursday 25th September from 6.00–7.00pm. All parents and carers of Year 10 students are warmly encouraged to attend.
The purpose of this evening is to provide you with key information as your child begins their GCSE and Level 2 studies. Over the next two years, students will embark on the most significant stage of their secondary education, and it is important that parents, carers, and school staff work together to ensure that every student is supported to achieve their full potential.
During the evening we will outline the structure and expectations of the two-year courses, highlight the demands students will face, and provide practical advice on how you can best support your child at home. We will also share guidance on effective study habits, the importance of attendance and punctuality, and the resources and support available to help your child succeed.
This evening is designed not only to prepare students for the journey ahead but also to ensure that parents and carers feel informed and confident in the role they play. By working together, we can maximise outcomes for all students and give them the strongest foundation for their future.
If you have any questions ahead of the evening, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you there.
Mr M McGeown - Vice Principal & Mr J Cronin Assistant Principal
Table Talk
This week's topic for discussion at home is Hidden Dangers of Sending and Receiving Indecent Images.
The hidden dangers of sending and receiving indecent images in today’s digital world, mobile phones and social media are part of everyday life for students. They’re great tools for staying connected, but they also come with risks -especially when it comes to sharing personal or explicit images.
We want to address an important and serious issue that affects students across the country, and unfortunately, sometimes right here in our own community: the sharing of indecent images (sometimes called “nudes” or “sexting”) among children and teens.
What Is the Issue?
Sending, receiving, or forwarding indecent images of anyone under 18, even if they are selfies or shared between friends, is not just risky—it’s illegal. Under UK law, creating, possessing, or distributing such images is classified as child sexual abuse material, even if all individuals involved are underage. This means that even if someone shares a photo of themselves or forwards one they’ve received, they could face serious consequences, including police involvement.
Why Is It Dangerous?
It’s Against the Law
The law treats indecent images of minors very seriously.
Students could be investigated by police and in some cases, have this recorded on their file, which can impact their future education or job prospects.
Once Sent, It’s Out of Your Control
Even if sent privately, images can be screenshot, shared, or reposted without consent.
What starts as a private message can quickly turn into a school-wide or even public issue, leading to shame, bullying, or blackmail.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Victims often feel violated, anxious, and depressed.
Being involved in a scandal like this can lead to long-term emotional harm, including loss of trust, humiliation, and damaged self-esteem.
It Can Lead to Exploitation
Predators may use shared images to manipulate or control students.
Once a person has one image, they may pressure someone to send more, which is a form of online exploitation and abuse.
What Can Students Do?
Think Before You Share: Never send or ask for explicit images, even as a joke or in a relationship.
Respect Others' Privacy: If someone sends you something inappropriate, delete it immediately and report it to a trusted adult.
Talk to Someone You Trust: If you’ve sent or received an indecent image and don’t know what to do, speak to a parent, teacher, or school counsellor. You will be supported.
What Can Parents Do?
Start the Conversation: Talk openly with your child about online safety and the risks of sexting. Make sure they know the law and understand the emotional impact.
Stay Involved: Be aware of which apps and platforms your child uses, and have regular, honest discussions about their digital life.
Encourage Reporting: Let your child know that they can always come to you if they feel pressured or unsafe online.
Final Message
Our school is committed to keeping all students safe—both offline and online. We encourage all members of our school community to treat others with respect, think carefully about their actions, and speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
Let’s work together to create a safe, supportive environment where everyone can learn and grow—free from fear, pressure, or harm. If you need help or advice, you can contact:
Childline: 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk
ThinkUKnow: www.thinkuknow.co.uk
School pastoral manager or Safeguarding Officer
Why We Do What We Do
Line up
First thing in a morning at 8.35am all students need to be on the courts lined up in their tutor groups in their Houses. A whistle is blown and students stand in silence. Their tutors greet them, inspect their uniform and discuss any personalised messages for the day. Once this has been done, staff stand at the head of their groups and a second whistle is blown. After the second whistle, there will be a brief standing assembly where successes and key messages are shared for the day.
Meet the Head of House Team at Lodge Park Academy
I have been a Head of House for Red Kite since 2022 and absolutely love it. I’ve seen the Red Kite House grow and develop in various ways, which makes me happy and fuels my enthusiasm for the future. Being a Head of House means students can look to me for guidance and support. I make it my personal mission to ensure that each Red Kite student has the best LPA experience. As a teacher of English, I am able to engage with the students in an academic way too. That part of my role allows me to have a stronger connection with my students.
In my personal time, I like to be with family and friends. I love to cook and I really enjoy music.
I am Mrs Occleshaw, Head of Goshawk and a teacher of mathematics. Prior to becoming a teacher, I held many posts, including working in retail and as a Dental nurse/receptionist. I was very late to education and didn’t attend university until I was 40 years old. I am passionate about ensuring that every child has the belief that they can achieve whatever they want to achieve.
My hobbies are varied, I love reading, walking, swimming, travelling, and I was once in a very successful darts team which I really enjoyed.
Hello, I’m Miss Wilson, and I am Head of Kestrel House this year while Mrs Wells is on maternity leave. Previously, I served as House Champion, supporting Kestrel with attendance and encouraging participation in house competitions.
As a former Lodge Park student and lifelong member of Yellow House, I’m thrilled to now have the opportunity to give back by supporting all Kestrel students throughout their journey here. I’m incredibly proud to be part of Kestrel House and excited to see everything we’ll achieve together this year.
Championing Independent Learning with Seneca at Lodge Park Academy
Seneca Week Two: Amazing Student Engagement
Our Year 10 and 11 students have made an exceptional start to the year with their independent homework on our school platform, Seneca. As of Thursday morning, an incredible 446 hours of homework had been completed across a wide range of subjects, with over 90% of students in both year groups fully engaged.
Together, students have completed more than 6,000 learning sessions, with the average learner dedicating around two hours to their studies on Seneca already this term. This level of commitment highlights the ambition, aspiration, and resilience of our learners as they prepare for their crucial exam years.
We are delighted to share that Lodge Park Academy is currently the most engaged school within the DRET Trust, and also the leading school in Corby and East Northamptonshire for Seneca activity across the first two weeks of term.
We kindly ask for your support as parents and carers in encouraging and guiding your children to complete their homework on Seneca. Your involvement makes a real difference and helps reinforce the value of independent learning at home.
Together, we can ensure that every student at Lodge Park Academy is equipped to reach their full potential.
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 answer 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, Lodge Park Academy
Record Breakers
Lodge Park Academy is officially part of a Guinness World Records title after taking part in the largest cookery lesson held simultaneously across multiple venues worldwide!
1st July 2025 saw Lodge Park Academy join the largest cookery lesson, organised by Jamie's Ministry of Food Foundation, which included over 10,515 sites across 42 countries and 6 continents, to break the record.
The inspiration behind this achievement is our very own Mrs Porter, Head of Design & Technology at LPA. Mrs Porter was supported during the event by Mrs Hawkins and Miss Jeffries, whose encouragement and coordination helped ensure everything ran smoothly.
“We’re incredibly proud of our students,” said Mrs Porter. “Their enthusiasm, teamwork and love for food made this event not only successful but truly memorable.”
Lodge Park Academy is proud to have been part of this global moment and looks forward to many more opportunities to inspire and unite through learning.
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.
Osprey Crowned Limbo Champions
The LPA House Championship officially got underway last week with House Limbo. Congratulations to Osprey house who were crowned champions, securing 100 house points.
Students from Year 7 to Year 11 represented their House teams on the stage in front of a full audience in the main hall. The atmosphere was fantastic throughout, with students cheering on their House teams, as they successfully completed each attempt. Following a number of exciting rounds and excellent efforts from all who took part, it came down to a tense final between Osprey and Goshawk.
Well done to everyone who played their part. Final results:
Osprey– 100 points
Goshawk – 75 points
Red Kite – 50 points + 20 bonus points
Kestrel – 25 points
The next theatre competition in the main hall is the brand new Who Wants to be a Millionaire quiz show towards the end of term.
There are lots of opportunities throughout the year to get involved in. If there is a particular competition you are interested in, please make sure you register your interest with either your Tutor or Head of House.
LPA House Football – Next Week
The eagerly anticipated House football competition returns to the LPA House Championship all next week. The competition will be taking place at lunchtime on Monday through to Friday, with each year group competing on different days.
The competition is open to both boys and girls. Students must bring in their trainers if they wish to compete.
Monday 22nd September – Year 7
Tuesday 23rd September – Year 8
Wednesday 24th September – Year 9
Thursday 25th September – Year 10
Friday 26th September – Year 11 and Sixth Form
LPA Harvest Festival Collection
Please continue to support this year’s Harvest Festival collection, in support of Corby Foodbank.
As a community, we are asking our four House teams to come together throughout the term to donate food items and household products to support those most in need in our community.
We are kindly appealing for your donations of food items and household products to be brought into school and placed in the House boxes on the stage.
Year 7 and 8 students will be attending a Harvest Festival service at St Columba church at the end of term where all items will be donated to Corby Foodbank.
Please do not donate fresh food products. Items need to have a long shelf life. House points will be awarded to the house who donate the most ‘House Coloured’ packaged products.
Thank you in advance for your support.
LPA Fantasy Premier League
Fantasy Premier League returned last week, following a long international break. There has been change to the top 10 positions following a number of high scoring totals for some of the managers. Finlay has claimed top spot by 8 points to Owen in second place ahead of another game week this weekend, which features the Merseyside Derby between Liverpool and Everton. There were seven green arrows in the top 10 last week and we have lots of managers determined to build up their points total this week.
Check back next week to see who makes it into the top 10.
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 17th October 2025
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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.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/lodgeparkpe?igsh=aDJxcDJzc3ozd3No
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https://x.com/lodgeparkacad?s=20
Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/lodgeparkacademy
Visit our website at:
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