Lodge Park Academy's Newsletter – Spring Term
Dear Families, Maya Angelou, the poet and essayist, maintained
“I think we all have empathy. We may not have enough courage to display it”.
At Lodge Park Academy we seek to empower our learners with the resilience and tenacity necessary to exhibit empathy in all aspects of their lives. As such, we are celebrating Empathy Week across our assemblies and tutor sessions this week. The students will consider case studies and situations where they can explore the levels of understanding and compassion available to them and – importantly – how they can show such concern for others. The American singer-songwriter Julien Baker argues
“we think empathy is innate, but it’s not. It’s a muscle you’re working.”
And we work it in every lesson, in every day, in every challenge. It is quite timely that Young Carers Day is this Wednesday (11th March), when we have an opportunity to consider and celebrate those members of the Lodge Park family and our wider community who support others. The Young Carers label refer to those persons under 18 (or up to 25 for young adult carers) who provide unpaid, regular, and ongoing care for a family member or friend with a disability, long-term illness or mental health condition. Many of our students have to manage such expansive roles alongside their academic studies and it is vital that we recognise and assist in their efforts. An essential part of empathy is an active awareness of the challenges faced by different members of our community. We share narratives and lives as part of our Pride and Belonging agenda. In the spirit of World Book Day last week, Malorie Blackman suggests that
“reading is [itself] an exercise in empathy; an exercise in walking in someone else’s shoes for a while”.
The eagle-eyed amongst you will have noticed that I have referenced female voices to enhance these messages. We would like to thank all our parents and guardians for their on-going (and often unsung) efforts to support our students through the academy, especially those celebrating Mothers’ Day (Sunday 15th March) at the end of the week. Best Wishes,
Lodge Park Academy Leadership Team
Table Talk
Talking About the Future: Why These Conversations Matter More Than Ever Teenagers are living in a world that moves quickly. New careers appear overnight, technology reshapes entire industries, and the pressure to “figure it all out” can feel intense. In the middle of all this, one of the most powerful things parents and carers can offer is simple: conversation. Not a one-off talk, but an ongoing dialogue that helps young people explore who they are, what they enjoy, and where they might want to go next. School as a Launchpad, Not a Race It’s easy for school to feel like a checklist of grades, deadlines, and exams. But when families talk about learning as a journey rather than a race, teenagers start to see school differently. Asking questions like “What did you enjoy today?” or “What felt challenging?” helps them reflect on their experiences rather than just the outcomes. These conversations build confidence and encourage students to take ownership of their learning. Goals That Grow With Them Teenagers don’t need a five-year plan. They need space to explore. When parents talk openly about goals — big or small — it helps young people understand that ambitions can evolve. A goal might be improving in a subject, joining a club, trying a new skill, or simply managing time more effectively. The message that goals can change as they grow is often a relief, and it keeps motivation alive. Imagining the Future Without Pressure The future can feel abstract, especially when adults ask, “What do you want to be?” A more helpful approach is to explore interests: “What kind of problems do you like solving?” or “What activities make you lose track of time?” These questions open doors rather than close them. When teenagers feel supported in exploring possibilities, they’re more likely to take healthy risks, try new things, and discover paths they hadn’t considered. A Partnership Between Home and School When families and schools work together, students benefit from a consistent message: their future is full of potential. Encouraging regular, relaxed conversations at home helps young people feel grounded, supported, and ready to take the next step — whatever that may be. The goal isn’t to map out a perfect future. It’s to help teenagers feel confident navigating the one they’ll create.
Why We Do What We Do
House Assemblies bring a sense of belonging for our students, and our four Houses bring together one community at Lodge Park Academy. This last week during our House assemblies we embedded the following so that all students are on the same page of understanding of Why We Do What We Do .......
What does it mean to "respond like a scholar" and why do we ask you to do this? Respond like a scholar means answering in full sentences using the question stem and using subject specific vocabulary. We ask you to do this to help you develop and practice both oral and written language. Being able to articulate in full sentences is a fundamental academic skill needed for explaining, describing and discussing concepts. What does PRIDE stand for in relation to your exercise books and why do we ask you to have pride in your books? It means to present work neatly, ruler to underline dates, subtitles and headings, to include dates, labels and sub-headings. Do not draw graffiti or rip out pages of your book. Put effort into all pieces of work, high expectations lead to better student outcomes. Taking pride can increase motivation and in turn improve the quality and presentation of your written work. It creates tangible evidence of your learning journey building ownership and accountability of your work identifying both areas of strength and improvement.
This Sunday 8th March we are celebrating International Women’s Day as part of Women’s History Month and we have linked these events to our school value of Gratitude and the value of Kindness. We have asked all staff and students to show their LPA gratitude by noticing and appreciating the people who make a difference in their lives — even when their contributions are quiet or behind the scenes. International Women’s Day is held annually to pause and say thank you and celebrate the women who have shaped our families, our schools, our community, and the world at large, as well as continue to push for gender equality and the advancement of women’s rights across the globe. Women’s History Month began in 1978 as a small local celebration in California. It has since grown into a global movement that recognises the achievements, contributions and struggles of women — past and present.
Gratitude isn’t just about the people we know personally, but also about recognising those who came before us — women who fought for rights, education, fairness, and opportunity that many of us benefit from today. When we learn about history, gratitude helps us remember that progress didn’t just happen — people worked bravely and kindly to make it happen. It means recognising the effort, courage and resilience that made our opportunities possible. Many of the rights and freedoms we take for granted today — access to education, equal pay laws, voting rights, protection from discrimination — exist because women campaigned, protested, studied, worked, and sometimes sacrificed greatly. Gratitude means acknowledging that progress didn’t just “happen.” It happened because people chose to stand up and push for fairness. And gratitude isn’t only about famous historical figures. It’s about the women in our everyday lives:- •Teachers who inspire us. •Family members who support us. •Friends who encourage us. •Staff in school who keep everything running.
However, gratitude shouldn’t stop at awareness. It should shape how we behave as part of our character. When we truly appreciate someone’s contribution, we treat them with kindness and respect. Kindness in this context means: •Challenging stereotypes instead of repeating them. •Speaking up when someone is treated unfairly. •Not laughing at comments that put others down. •Ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard in group work or discussion. Gender equality isn’t just a global issue — it’s something we build or weaken every day through small choices. Choice not Chance. International Women’s Day isn’t only about celebrating achievements. It’s about continuing the work of equality — and that work starts with everyday kindness.
Why does this matter? Although huge progress has been made over the last century, inequality still exists in many parts of the world — and sometimes closer to home than we realise.
- There are still gaps in pay.
- There are still barriers in certain careers.
- There are still stereotypes about what boys and girls “should” or “shouldn’t” do.
The culture you create in this school — in classrooms, corridors, at break and lunchtime and on social media — matters. You have the power to create an environment where: •Ambition isn’t limited by gender. •Respect is the norm. •Kindness is strength, not weakness
So we set our staff and students a simple challenge: •Express gratitude — say thank you to a female who has made a difference in their life. •Notice their language — challenge stereotypes, even small ones. •Choose kindness — especially when it would be easier to stay silent. Because when gratitude becomes action, it becomes change.
- Women’s History Month teaches us to remember.
- International Women’s Day teaches us to celebrate.
- Gratitude teaches us to appreciate.
- Kindness teaches us to act.
And when we put them all together, we help build our school — and our community — where everyone is valued, respected, and given equal opportunity to succeed.
LPA Sports Weekly Round Up
All England Open Badminton Championships - Birmingham On Tuesday 12 of our students had the incredible opportunity to attend the Yonex All England Open Badminton Championships in Birmingham after their dedication to attending Badminton Club. They watched world-class professional players compete at the highest level, experiencing the speed, skill and intensity of elite badminton up close. To make the day even more special, students managed to collect signatures from some of the players and even had a go at some badminton activities themselves!
DRET Cross Country Cup On Wednesday, 16 students from Years 7–10 took part in the DRET Cross Country Cup. Despite extremely muddy conditions, every runner gave it their all, showing determination, resilience, and fantastic LPA pride from start to finish. Their hard work paid off as we were crowned winners of the DRET Progress Shield, improving on last year’s performance – a brilliant achievement for the team! A special mention goes to Kasey and Riley, who both finished in 4th place in their races. An outstanding effort by all of the students who took part.
Attendance Update
We would like to share our weekly Attendance milestones with our parents. Whilst sharing the milestones for House Tutor groups, we are proud to share with you the amazing students who have 100% attendance at the Academy, year to date. It is never too late to improve your child's attendance. If you have any questions regarding your child's attendance, please feel free to contact the Attendance Team at the Academy. attendance@lodgeparkacademy.co.uk
DRET Secondary Music Festival 5th March 2026
On Thursday 5th March our Music Department journeyed to the Albert Hall in Nottingham to take part in DRET's Secondary Music Festival alongside other DRET secondary schools. To be eligible to go along, students had to regularly attend rehearsals, learn their notes and develop their stage etiquette. Every student demonstrated pride and belonging in the way they represented LPA. The performances began with special guests The Berkeley Ensemble performing music created by DRET students in the grand finale of this year's Composition Competition. Representing LPA was Year 12 A-Level Music student Emily with her composition 'Nubes Tenebrosa' (Dark Clouds), which demonstrated an excellent standard of string quartet writing and jaunty rhythms. Huge congratulations to Emily for being selected for the final. Our choir performed a 3-part arrangement of Irving Berlin's 'Blue Skies'; a jazz standard. Their warm harmonies radiated like the sun shining over an appreciative audience! The song has an interesting history as it was originally written for his newborn daughter and later Al Johnson performed it in the first ever talkie (cinema film with recorded sound) 'The Jazz Singer' in 1927. Our morning brass group performed an arrangement of One Direction's 'What Makes You Beautiful'. Their energetic brassy tones filled the room and had the audience clapping along to this upbeat number. Our thanks to Mr Turnbull - our talented visiting brass specialist - who taught and rehearsed the group. The final performance was a massed performance by all staff and students of a piece of music called The Vow composed especially for DRET by renowned jazz musician Pete Latanka. There were around 500 students playing instruments and singing in glorious harmony. A huge well done to all our students taking part this year - we are proud of each and every one you.
Mrs Olner and all of Team Music
‘World Book Day’
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss
In celebration of ‘World Book day’, Mrs Storey was able to organise and collect a free book for every student in KS3. After completing their NGRT tests in the library, pupils were able to choose their free book from a range of titles. Throughout ‘World book day’, pupils were able to spend 10 minutes of each lesson reading, Teachers each read sections of the short story, ‘’Button button’’ until they were able to reveal the twist during period 5. Pupils were able to discuss the story with staff and peers, predicting what might happen next. Miss Webster’s Y8 group had some really insightful thoughts (please see the image below)
Seneca
“When the leader is overtaken by the pack, it isn’t failure — it’s a turning point.” Sometimes life puts you in front, and sometimes it pushes you into the middle of the chase. But remember:
- Being caught isn’t the end of the story. It’s the moment you rediscover your hunger.
- The pack catching you doesn’t mean you’re slipping. It means you’re surrounded by competitors strong enough to sharpen you.
Mr McGeown - Vice Principal
"Happy Independence Day"
A few of our LPA family wanted to celebrate the Ghanaian Independence day and you can watch for the Ghanian flag flying over LPA today. The Independence Day of Ghana is a national holiday celebrated yearly. This day is an official state holiday for the citizens of Ghana both within and in the diaspora to honour and celebrate the heroes of Ghana who led the country to attain its independence. Independence Day is celebrated on 6 March every year.
Lodge Park Academy Bright Sparx
Each week our students at LPA complete Maths questions for their homework on Sparx. Some students answers 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/ Thank you for your ongoing support.
Mrs S Irons - Director of Maths
Learn to play a Brass Instrument at LPA!
We have visiting teachers for piano, singing, guitar, brass and drum kit. Lessons are paid for by parents via the My Child At School app and are subsidised by 50% if your child has Free School Meals, is eligible for Pupil Premium or studies GCSE Music or A-Level Music. You can find out more details and sign up for lessons via www.lodgeparkacademy.co.uk/music or speak to Mrs Olner, Director of Music.
A-Level Music Recital
LPA families are warmly invited to attend our upcoming music recitals celebrating our talented and hard-working students which take place during March. Our A-Level recital is on Monday 16th March starting at 4.30pm in the hall which we expect to last around an hour. What is an A-Level Music Recital Exam? An A-Level Music recital exam is a pivotal event for students studying advances music courses. The recital exam serves as both a culmination of their hard work and a demonstration of their technical and expressive abilities on their chosen instrument or voice. During the recital, students are expected to perform a diverse repertoire, often spanning different musical eras and styles, to showcase their versatility. It provides a platform for students to express their artistic identity and gain valuable performance experience, which is crucial for those pursuing higher education or careers in music. Preparing for such an event involves rigorous practice, careful selection of pieces, and collaboration with our Musician in Residence. This public performance is their final preparations before performing for the visiting examiner. We look forward to welcoming you.
Mrs E Olner - Teacher of Music
Year 11 GCSE Music Recital
Our Year 11 GCSE recital is on Wednesday 25th March starting at 5pm which we expect to last for around 90 minutes. This recital will be recorded for coursework purposes. We welcome you to come and join us celebrating our talented Year 11 Musicians.
Mrs E Olner - Teacher of Music
LPA House Championship 2025/2026
House Winter Games
It’s been another action-packed week of Winter Games action at LPA this week as House teams went head-to-head in the penultimate competition, Indoor Hockey. Kestrel and Goshawk both picked up gold medals, adding maximum points to their Winter Games tally heading into the final competition next week. Each gold medal is worth 5 points. Silver medals are worth 3 points and Bronze are worth 2 points. The House with the highest points total at the end of the games will be crowned LPA Winter Games champions. Sportshall Athletics is the final competition taking place in the gym next week
SportsHall Athletics
The final competition of the LPA House Winter Games takes place next week. House teams will go head-to-head in Sportshall Athletics, taking place in the gym during lunchtime. Students who wish to represent their House team in this event must inform their tutor or Head of House. House teams require a minimum of 4 players (2 boys and 2 girls) in each team. Two more gold medals up for grabs – who will be crowned House Winter Games champions?
House Winter Games – Indoor Hockey
The KS4 round of matches came down to the final match between Goshawk and Kestrel, where Goshawk scored a last-minute goal to claim victory. Results from across both days were accumulated to determine the overall Winter Games Hockey champions. Congratulations to Kestrel who were crowned champions and secured 100 house points, following a gold in KS3 and silver in KS4. Osprey finished in second place, followed by Red Kite and Goshawk in third and fourth place respectively.
‘Reflections’ House Photography Competition
This years House Photography competition is well underway and we have received some great entries so far. Throughout this term and into the Easter Holidays we are looking for creative photos that captures this year’s theme, ‘Reflections’ – This is open to interpretation but could include creative skills using water, mirrors, shiny objects etc. The competition is open to all students, staff and wider family members. A maximum of 5 photos per person will be accepted. All photo entries must be sent to housechampionship@lodgeparkacademy.co.uk including your name, year group and house team. Deadline is 5.00pm on Friday 17th April 2026.
‘Just Dance’ House Competition Returns
Only three weeks left to secure your place - The eagerly anticipated ‘Just Dance’ House competition returns this term. The competition will be taking place at the end of term in the main hall, on the stage in front of a live audience. If you wish to perform in this years competition you must send your selected song from to housechampionship@lodegparkacademy.co.uk by Friday 27th March. Participants will need to perform a ‘just dance’ song either individually or as a group of up to 8 (participants DO NOT need to be in the same tutor or year group but must be in the same house).
LPA Sports Timetable - Term 4
Enrichment Timetable - Term 4
The academy would like to increase the attendance at the non-Sports Enrichment clubs and we have been listening to Student voice on the clubs they wish to attend. Therefore, we will shortly be including some additional clubs and in Term 3 we introducin an Enrichment Attendance card. When students attend 6 sessions of any Enrichment club and get their card signed by the Enrichment teachers they will hand this card into Student Reception and it will go into a prize draw taking place at the end of each term. We will also count up cards at the end of the term and House points will be rewards (House in 1st place 25 points, in 2nd place 15 points, in 3rd place 10 points, in 4th place 5 points)
Support & Information for Parents
With its end-to-end encryption and huge popularity, WhatsApp is often seen as a private and secure way to stay in touch; however, that same privacy can make it harder for trusted adults to see when things go wrong. This week's #WakeUpWednesday guide explains how features like group chats, disappearing messages, ‘Channels’ and location sharing can expose young users to pressure, unwanted contact and inappropriate content.
Career Days offers a series of online work experience and Career Days designed specifically for students aged 13–18. These live, interactive days give students a chance to: • Learn about a specific career from industry professionals • Understand day-to-day life, entry requirements, and pathways • Complete practical work experience tasks • Ask questions in live Q&A sessions • Receive a personalised certificate for UCAS or CV use . We’ve got a range of upcoming Career Days that might suit different interests — all taking place online and accessible from anywhere: .
- Vet Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 21st March 2026
- Computer Science Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 28th March 2026
- Medicine Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 4th April 2026
- Law Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 11th April 2026
- Midwifery Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 18th April 2026
- Dentistry Work Experience & Careers Day – Sunday 19th April 2026
- Psychology Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 25th April 2026
- Architect Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 2nd May 2026
- Engineering Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 9th May 2026
- Business Work Experience & Careers Day – Saturday 16th May 2026
- Performing Arts Work Experience & Careers Day – Sunday 18th October 2026
. Details, dates & registration: Career Days Why this might benefit students: ✔ Career insight - live expert input and real-world context ✔ Work experience evidence for UCAS & applications ✔ Accessible for students anywhere - no travel required ✔ Suitable across Years 9–13
Community Events
VCL Productions Summer Youth Project is BACK!
VCL Productions is excited to announce this year’s Summer Youth Project production of Shrek Jr., with auditions taking place in Northampton on Sunday 26th April. Our Summer Youth Project provides young people with the opportunity to build confidence, develop performance skills, make new friendships, and take part in a full-scale musical production in a supportive and inclusive environment. We are pleased to share that we are registered with Northamptonshire Sport and will hopefully be allocated several HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) funded places for eligible families. In addition, bursary options are available for successful applicants following audition, helping to ensure the project remains accessible to as many young people as possible. We are passionate about providing opportunities for children and young people across the community, regardless of background, and would truly appreciate your support in helping us spread the word.
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 - Thursday 2nd April 2026
Lodge Park Academy Re-Opens -Monday 20th April 2026
Bank Holiday - Monday 4th May 2026
Lodge Park Academy Closes - Friday 22nd May 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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Credits:
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