Welcome
Dear families As we approach the final term of the academic year, it is an important and exciting time for both our Year 13 and Year 12 students.
Year 13
For our Year 13 students, this term marks the final stretch before they begin their examination leave. Over the coming weeks, lessons will focus heavily on consolidation, revision and ensuring students feel as prepared and confident as possible ahead of their final examinations. Many students are already holding university offers, apprenticeships, or other post-18 plans, and it is vital that they remain focused and committed to achieving the grades required to secure these next steps. We are incredibly proud of the effort students have shown so far and encourage them to continue working hard right through to their final exams.
Year 12
For Year 12 students, this term is also significant as they begin preparing for the transition into Year 13. Towards the end of the term, students will start to “step up” into their Year 13 studies, helping them understand the expectations and demands of their final year in sixth form. This is an important stage in their journey as they begin to think more seriously about their future pathways, whether that be university, apprenticeships or employment.
In addition, Year 12 students will take part in their work experience placement at the start of July. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to gain first-hand insight into the world of work, develop key employability skills and explore potential career interests. We look forward to hearing about their experiences and the skills they develop during this important week.
Thank you
As always, thank you for your continued support. The final term is a busy but rewarding time for our students, and we look forward to supporting both Year 13 as they complete their sixth form journey and Year 12 as they prepare to step up into their final year.
Year 12 UCAS Conference Visit – University of Bedfordshire
We are pleased to share that our Year 12 students will have the opportunity to attend the UCAS Discovery Conference at the University of Bedfordshire this June. This event is an important step in supporting students as they begin to explore post-18 pathways and prepare for the transition into Year 13. The UCAS Conference brings together a wide range of universities, apprenticeship providers, and employers from across the country. During the visit, students will be able to:
- Meet representatives from universities and ask questions about courses, entry requirements, and campus life.
- Explore apprenticeship and employment opportunities, helping them understand alternative routes into future careers.
- Attend talks and guidance sessions on topics such as choosing courses, preparing personal statements, and planning next steps.
- Gather prospectuses and resources to support their research as they begin thinking about their applications later in the year.
This experience is designed to help students make informed decisions and give them the confidence to start shaping their post-18 plans. It is always a highly valuable and motivating day for our Year 12 cohort. Letters have already been sent out to parents, and we kindly ask that payments are made through the MCAS app to secure your child’s place on the trip. We look forward to providing our students with this exciting opportunity and supporting them as they take the next steps towards their future.
Student Finance 2026: What Parents Need to Know
As our Year 13 students plan their next steps, it’s important families are aware of the key dates and processes for applying for Student Finance England for university entry in 2026.
When Applications Open
For students starting university between August and December 2026, applications for full‑time undergraduate student finance opened on Monday 23rd March 2026.
Do Students Need a Confirmed University Place?
No, Students do not need to have decided on their final course or firmed their university choices before applying. They can update their details later if needed.
Why Apply Early?
Applying as soon as the window opens ensures funds are in place for the start of term. Students who apply late may receive only the minimum loan initially, with the remainder paid later once household income checks are complete.
How to Apply
The application is completed online via the Government website:
👉 www.gov.uk/student-finance According to official guidance, the process is simple and involves:
- Creating an online account, which generates a Customer Reference Number (CRN).
- Completing the online application form, including details of the chosen course (can be changed later).
- Providing identity evidence, usually a valid passport.
- Submitting household income information, where required.
These steps are confirmed in detailed guidance from GOV.UK and Student Finance England. What Parents Need to Provide
If the student is applying for a means‑tested maintenance loan, parents will be asked for:
- National Insurance numbers
- Income details for the 2024/25 tax year (e.g., P60 forms)
This information allows Student Finance England to assess the correct level of support.
Key Deadlines
While the official opening date is 23 March 2026, recommended practice is to submit applications between March and May 2026 to guarantee funding by the start of term.
Students can still apply up to nine months after their course start date, but this risks delayed payments.
Useful links
Student finance: how to apply: When to apply - GOV.UK Finance Deadlines 25/26 | THE EDIT | UNiDAYS Student finance: how you're assessed and paid 2026 to 2027 - GOV.UK
Degree Apprenticeships – An Exciting Path to a Bright Future!
Degree apprenticeships are becoming one of the most exciting routes for young people planning their next steps. They give students the chance to earn a real salary, gain amazing hands‑on experience, and achieve a fully funded degree at the same time, a truly win‑win opportunity! When to Apply: Opportunities pop up all year round, so it’s always worth keeping an eye out! The busiest time for new openings is August to October, and many big employers open applications between September and March, so this is a great window for students to get ahead. Where to Explore Opportunities:
- UCAS Degree Apprenticeships – Discover live vacancies and helpful guidance: https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships/degree-apprenticeships
- GOV.UK – Find an Apprenticeship – Search thousands of up‑to‑date roles across every sector: https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
- Amazing Apprenticeships (Parent Zone) – Brilliant resources, inspiring stories, and clear advice for families: https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/zones/parent/
Encourage your child to explore what’s out there, they may discover a brilliant opportunity that launches their future career!
What Students Have Been Learning in PSHCE This Term
This term in PSHCE, students in both year groups have been exploring a key life skill: understanding personal finances. The aim has been to help them build confidence in managing money and to develop a realistic awareness of the costs associated with adult life. Across recent weeks, students have been discussing a range of important financial topics, including:
- Student loans – how they work, what they cover, and how repayments are made in the future.
- Mortgages and housing costs – understanding deposits, interest, and monthly payments.
- Bank accounts – the differences between current accounts, savings accounts, and how to use them responsibly.
- Credit cards – what they are, how interest works, and the importance of using them safely to avoid debt.
- Saving and budgeting – why saving matters and how small habits can support long‑term goals.
- The cost of living – looking at everyday expenses and how prices affect the choices we all make.
These lessons have prompted thoughtful conversations about independence, future aspirations, and the importance of planning ahead. By learning about finances early, students are developing the foundations they need to make informed decisions as they move towards adulthood. We hope these discussions spark further conversations at home and help students feel more prepared for the future.
KPI 2 Data and Student Progress Meetings
All KPI 2 assessment data has now been finalised, and you should have received your child’s report. All student will have had their one‑to‑one meeting with a member of the sixth form team leading up to the half term. These conversations will focus on:
- Reviewing their recent results
- Discussing any issues or concerns they may have
- Identifying what they need to do to achieve the grades required for their next pathway
After the half term we will contact parents and carers with personalised feedback, including how well students have performed and the next steps to support their progress. We are incredibly proud of how hard our students have worked so far. It’s important that they continue to maintain this effort as we move into the next stage of the academic year. If you have any questions in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Reporting Student Absences and Appointments
To help us keep accurate records and ensure student safety, please use one of the following methods to report an absence or let us know if your child needs to leave school for an appointment:
- Call the school’s absence line
- Use the MCAS app to report the absence
- Email the Sixth Form Coordinator directly at sflynn@lodgeparkacademy.co.uk
Absences can only be authorised if reported by a parent or carer, not by the student Your support with this is much appreciated.
Contact Us
Telephone: 01536 203817
Head of Sixth Form Email: ayork@lodgeparkacademy.co.uk
Sixth Form Coordinator Email: sflynn@lodgeparkacademy.co.uk
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