Lodge Park Academy's Newsletter – Summer Term
Dear Families The former Leicester City and Premier League winning manager Claudio Ranieri believed that
“if you are a gladiator, a fighter in this sport, in life you can be the same”.
While we don’t condone violent means and violent ends, we do promote a healthy competitive culture within our academy. The record-breaking 5000-1 odds against the Foxes succeeding in the 2015-16 season were a stark reflection of the daunting challenges threatening their progress. We don’t employ professional footballers nor pit hardened warriors against each other in a sand-covered arena, but we do strive to develop resilient and ambitious leaners within our walls. So it is quite appropriate that we celebrate two epic struggles at the closing of this term. Our GCSE and A level students are in the middle of their final assessments, preferring the internet to the more traditional rete (or weighted net) and swapping their trident for tried and tested revision tools. Other members of our Lodge Park family have been temporarily leaving their studies to duel with pugil sticks, as our students and – slightly bruised - staff compete in our House Gladiators competition. Both activities require a degree of resilience and ambition from the participants. Swami Sivananda, a Hindu spiritual teacher, believed
“The harder the struggle, the more glorious the triumph. Self-realisation demands very great struggle”.
We relish this challenge and wish to thank you for helping us promote these essential life skills among our learners. As we support students toward the end of their journey, empowering them to take those poignant steps beyond the boundaries of our academy, we also welcome potential new learners to start their own odysseys with us. Our Year 6 Friendship afternoons encourage younger students from across Corby to experience a taste of what secondary level education can offer. As the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu famously opined
“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step”.
Best Wishes,
Lodge Park Academy Leadership Team
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 ..........
The Gratitiude Tree
Lodge Park Academy in Corby collaborates with local leaders to support SEND students
Educational leaders from across North Northamptonshire gathered at the Maplefields’ Leadership Day to discuss inclusion, and collaborate with colleagues on solution‑focused practice. Among the highlights of the day was a powerful contribution from Lodge Park Academy’s Executive Principal, Sue Jones and Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Dr. Ute Steenkamp, who shared effective, real‑world practice to support schools in meeting the needs of their most vulnerable learners. Please follow the link below to read more. https://www.northantstelegraph.co.uk/your-world/lodge-park-academy-in-corby-collaborates-with-local-leaders-to-support-send-students-8554507
LPA Special - Meet the Author
Hollie M - The Darkborne Chronicles: Defiance
We are so proud of Hollie in Y8 for writing and publishing her very own book. Hollie has shown unbelievable dedication and resilience in creating this book. We are very lucky to have been gifted a copy for our school library. Hollie would like to thank her English teachers for supporting her through this journey. Hollie has answered questions based around the Lodge Park Academy Values of Aspiration, Gratitude, Courage, Resilience, Ambition and Respect. Aspiration - What inspired you to write stories? I enjoyed reading from an early age and always liked writing too. I wanted to get my work out there for others to enjoy. Gratitude - Have you found that reading has helped you to become a writer? In what ways? Yes massively. It has helped me to learn lots of new vocabulary and helped me with writing techniques. How do you come up with ideas for your characters and settings? Sometimes I find inspiration from pictures on Pinterest or from the lyrics when I am listening to music. Courage - What’s the hardest part about writing a book, and how do you overcome it? Being motivated to write every day which I overcome by dividing my time up and setting myself goals. How do you decide what happens next when you’re writing a story? An idea pops into my head and then I work out how I will get to it. Resilience - Have you ever had writer’s block, and what do you do about it? Yes, that happens, sometimes I re-read what I have already written so far and sometimes I take a break or write a different short story. Do you have a favourite place or routine for writing? My favourite place to write is in my bedroom with my books around me. I like that I can smell them. I usually do this after my homework. Ambition - What advice would you give to someone who wants to become an author? Read lots and start with short stories. Respect - What do you hope readers take away from your stories? To stand up for what is right. Are there any books or authors who inspire you now? Derek Landy, Skulduggery Pleasant series. If you could meet a character from any book (yours or someone else’s), who would it be and why? Leila Winters from my book, Defiance from The Darkborne Chronicles, because I have worked so hard on the character and she feels like part of my soul.
Literacy
Sonnet Competition - Winner
This term, we ran a ‘Spring sonnet’ competition. Pupils were encouraged to write poetry based around the form of the sonnet and under the theme of ‘spring.’ We really enjoyed reading so many wonderful entries. The First Breath of Spring by Lauren We are so impressed with Lauren’s ability to write in the sonnet form – this is an incredibly challenging form of poetry and she has executed it beautifully. Lauren has used an alternate rhyme scheme and ended with a rhyming couplet. She has also made sure each line is written in iambic pentameter.
Within their English lessons, pupils in Year 7 and Year 8 have been working hard to create entries for the external poetry competition ran through young writers. This competition is centred around the theme of ‘Wild wonders.’ We have chosen internal winners and these will be entered into the Young writer’s competition. Cherry Blossom by Maccie
Within their English lessons, pupils in Year 7 and Year 8 have been working hard to create entries for the external poetry competition ran through young writers. This competition is centred around the theme of ‘Wild wonders.’ We have chosen internal winners and these will be entered into the Young writer’s competition. How would you like to meet a Wolf? - by Alexander
Term 5 Above & Beyond Nominations and Stars of the Term
During Term 5 Tutors have selected at intervals two students in their tutor group who have gone "Above & Beyond" demonstrating at least 1 of our LPA core values (Ambition, Aspiration, Respect, Resilience, Courage, Gratitude) consistently and are deserved of recognition on our Above & Beyond boards in the House Hub area of the Zone and celebrated during House assemblies this week. All students selected will go into a Prize draw at the end of the academic year. Heads of House then selected from all students nominated in their House a Star of the Term. Stars of the term go into an additional special prize draw at the end of the academic year.
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
Seneca - Term 5
As we enter the last week of term, we thank you all for another, impressive week of independent learning. We are all proud of our students and this is never more evident in their willingness to engage in study independently. Our hours and performance are slightly down this week and this is a result of our students channelling their attentions towards specific subject revision away from Seneca in the lead up to their exams. Thank you to our tutors for all that they do and will continue to do to have the highest expectations for our students.
Every week new names pop up on our Top Ten study time board. Keep choosing independent study. As Year 11 continue their journey with their GCSE's exams - Year 10 have taken up the mantel to increase their study time this week and as you can see they have become our hardest working students on Seneca. Thank you all very much for supporting your child with their Seneca Independent Learning.
Mr M McGeown - Vice Principal
DRET Musician of the Year 2026 Launch
Our annual competition for our young instrumentalists has launched this week, and all our instrumental players are invited to take part! There are 3 categories (foundation, intermediate and advanced) where the focus is how musically students play rather than the technical difficulty alone.
Last year, we very nearly won the highly coveted, title of 'DRET Musician of the Year' with excellent performances from Year 11 alumni Jennie and current Year 12 Richard.
Help is on hand from the music team, including making a good quality recording, and the closing date for entries is 19th June. Please encourage your young musician to get involved, and good luck!
Mrs Olner - Director of Music
House Championship 2025/2026
Goshawk Gladiators Champions
It was an exciting end of term at LPA, as students and staff went head-to-head in a brand-new Gladiators style House competition. As seen on TV, students and staff represented their respective House teams in our very own versions of Powerball and Duel. The competition was action packed and competitive throughout as teams attempted to secure as many House points as possible across both events. The House with the highest points total at the end of the competition were crowned Gladiator champions. Congratulations to Goshawk who accumulated the most points (35) to be crowned winners, ahead of Kestrel who finished in 2nd place with 25 points. Osprey secured a 3rd place finish with 21 points, followed by Red Kite in 4th place.
LPA House Fantasy Premier League
The final weekend of the Premier League season is upon us. Who will be crowned 2026 LPA Fantasy Premier League champion? Tawanda is clinging on to top spot by just 10 points and is looking to claim victory in back-to-back seasons! Tommy is closing in on the leader going into the final weekend of the season and will be hoping to finish off his campaign with a huge points haul. The Gamesmaker looks to have cemented at least a 5th place finish but has hopes of leap frogging at least one more manager in the table before by the end of the weekend. Good luck to all managers and keep an eye out for information on how to join next seasons competition!
Term 6 House Competitions
As we enter half term, the final straight of the academic year is just around the corner and we have some exciting House competitions to take place in the final few weeks. We have a host of House activities planned at the start of term in our Road to World Cup competition followed by the return of Bottle Rockets, Lip Sync Battle and Sports Day. A further 2,500+ House points are on offer across the term, which could prove decisive in the race of the 2026 LPA House Championship. Road to World Cup competition information will be sent out at the beginning of term, with a guess the score to all World Cup group games. A link to the online form will be sent to all student email address as well as to parents via MCAS. The competition will be open to all students, staff and wider family members.
LPA Sports Timetable - Term 6
Music Clubs Timetable - Term 6
Enrichment Timetable - Term 6
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. We have introduced 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
Minecraft
Minecraft continues to be a highly popular platform for children, combining creativity, problem-solving and social interaction. While the game can offer positive opportunities for learning and play, features such as public servers, multiplayer modes and in-game communication can create safeguarding challenges. Our latest #WakeUpWednesday guide supports educators and parents in understanding these risks and helping children play more safely. The guide explores: • Public server communication and contact with unknown players • Griefing, disruptive behaviour and online conflict • In-game spending and subscription costs • Addictive gameplay loops and balanced screen time • Safer settings, private servers and suitable game modes With clear, practical advice, the guide helps adults set boundaries, encourage safer choices and support responsible Minecraft use. Access the guide: https://vist.ly/54tfx #Safeguarding #OnlineSafety #Minecraft
💜 Back by popular demand! 💜 We’re delighted to have secured another reduced-price Spa Session at the Holiday Inn Corby Spa 🫧 📅 4th June 2026 📍 Holiday Inn Corby ⏰ Two hours of relaxation 💷 Just £15.25 per person Enjoy full access to: 🏊 Swimming pool 💦 Jacuzzi 🔥 Sauna 🌫 Steam room Whether you’d like to chat and connect with other parent carers, or simply take some quiet time for yourself, this is your opportunity to switch off, unwind and recharge. Because sometimes, a little time just for you makes all the difference 💜 Book your place here: https://npcv.co.uk/book-a-service%2Fevent (Open to all parent/carers of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities SEND aged 0–25.)
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:
- 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
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.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/lodgeparkpe?igsh=aDJxcDJzc3ozd3No
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Credits:
Created with images by monocle - "paper tag with the question word Why is it important for me to do this?" • ESLINE - "Table tennis rackets and ball" • Shutter2U - "Abstract medical blue glow brain wireframe network and connecting dot in space background.,Futuristics science and medical technology concept.,Abstract human body part system concept.,3D illustration" • HN Works - "Victorious team triumphs under sunset with trophy and numerous silhouetted hands" • Frank H. - "Learning by doing concept.,Hand turns a dice and changes the word "learning" to "doing", or vice versa." • christdian - "Elegant musical score elements with quavers and flats on white" • Zarya Maxim - "Musical instruments, orchestra or a collage of music" • btiger - "3D Steps Illustration: Business Success Path with Educational and Career Icons" • umut hasanoglu - "Wooden signpost with arrows pointing towards help, guidance, support, and advice against a bright blue sky with clouds." • thodonal - "Concept of information" • alice_photo - "Contact us business icon on computer keyboard with the globe"