Newsletters

April 2026 E-Newsletter 

{item_alt_tag}
{item_alt_tag}

A Message from Principal, Mr Martin

It has been a fantastic return to school following the Easter break, and it has been wonderful to see the academy buzzing with energy once again.

Year 10 mock examinations are now almost complete, and it has been encouraging to see our students approach this important period with such maturity and determination. They have settled into the exam process extremely well, and I encourage them to continue their hard work and positive attitude. With GCSE and A Level exams beginning from 11th May, I would like to wish all of our students the very best of luck. Please make full use of the after-school revision sessions taking place across the academy.

We were also treated to an incredible Dance Showcase this month, which was truly a fantastic celebration of talent, creativity and hard work. Our students gave outstanding performances, and we are incredibly proud of the talent we have here at SWA. Excitement is already building for the upcoming summer production of The Addams Family alongside our BEST Summer Arts Festival.

Sporting success has continued across the academy, with our U15 Girls’ Football Team crowned County Cup champions following an impressive 6–2 victory. Meanwhile, our U18 Boys’ Football Team head to the ESFA National Finals today, and we wish them the very best of luck ahead of their match. There have been many other fantastic sporting achievements this term, and I encourage you to read more about them below.

We have also enjoyed welcoming the arrival of ducklings to the academy. This has been a wonderful initiative and has brought great excitement to both students and staff as they have followed the journey from eggs to hatchlings.

Another highlight has been the ski trip to Italy. The trip was a fantastic opportunity for all involved, and I would like to extend a huge thank you to the staff who generously gave up their time and support to make it possible.

As we move into May, we hope the month brings continued focus, sunshine and many more fantastic opportunities for our students and wider school community. Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support, and let’s continue the excellent work together.


Messages From Heads of Year 

Year 9, Mr Rich

A hearty congratulations to our Year 9s for taking the next step in their academic careers by completing their options, and with the diligent approach so many students have taken.
We are in the final climb of arranging and sorting, and await the student confirmations soon.

I would also like to congratulate both our DofE and CREST Award students. I have had the pleasure of seeing them hard at work, showing teamwork, responsibility, and ingenuity in the face of some real-world and theoretical challenges.

As we move through our final term of the school year, students will begin to notice a transition, almost a passing of the torch. Our Year 11s and 13s will say farewell to SWA this half-term, and subject teachers will begin the transition into GCSE-style lessons, making a clear move towards their final 2 years with us. A marvel at how fast time goes when you’re having fun!

This term is filled with wonderful trips and some great opportunities to dig into the community here at SWA, but we will also make our standards of responsibility clear with students, so this term will be their next opportunity to show who they want to be.

Warmest Regards,
Year 9 Team


Year 10, Miss Joy

Well done to Year 10 for the excellent conduct, work ethic and resilience shown during the recent mock examinations. The students approached the process maturely and should be proud of their efforts. Many students have also taken part in exciting trips, extracurricular activities and enrichment opportunities, further reflecting their commitment and enthusiasm.

Looking ahead, work experience in May will be an important opportunity to develop valuable skills beyond the classroom, and students are encouraged to approach this with professionalism.

Year 10 continue to be positive role models in school, and high standards of uniform, behaviour and attendance must be maintained. 

Thank you for your continued hard work and commitment.

Year 10 team


Year 11, Mrs Godfrey

It has been an absolute privilege watching this year group grow into the resilient, talented, and kind young adults they are today. We are incredibly proud of the hard work they’ve put in so far, and we have every confidence that they will do themselves proud in the coming weeks. To ensure a smooth transition into study leave, please take note of the following important arrangements:

  • Final Day of Lessons: Students are expected to attend their full timetabled lessons as normal up until Monday 18th May. These final sessions are crucial for last-minute revision and exam technique.

  • End of Year Celebrations: We will officially mark the end of the compulsory timetable on Monday 18th May. This will be a wonderful opportunity for students to celebrate their journey together, sign shirts and yearbooks, and take photos with friends and staff.

  • Uniform Policy: Please be reminded that full school uniform must be worn for all exams. Maintaining our high standards of dress helps students keep a focused, professional mindset during this period.


Once study leave begins, students are more than welcome to use the school facilities for revision. However, for safeguarding and logistical reasons, the following rules apply:

  1. Signing In: If a student is coming into school at a time when they do not have a scheduled exam, they must sign in at Reception upon arrival.

  2. Study Location: During lesson times, students remaining on site must base themselves in the canteen. This ensures they have a dedicated space to work without disrupting ongoing classes for other year groups.

 

We are incredibly proud of this cohort and wish them the very best of luck in their upcoming exams. Thank you for your continued support from home.

All the best from the Year 11 Team


Year 13, Mrs Hoad

With only one week to go, our Year 13 students are working harder than ever to prepare for their final exams and finish coursework. They have been absolutely brilliant in their time at SWA, and we are looking forward to celebrating their last school day next Friday (8th May) and finalising preparations for Prom (3rd July).

Orders for the Yearbook and Hoodies are now closed. However, we are still accepting payments for Prom and Prom-Plus-One for those students who wish to bring a guest. Prom takes place on Friday 3rd July at The Marquee, near Bedford.  We are looking forward to a fantastic evening to celebrate all their achievements in style!


Academy News 

Year 10 Students Hit the Slopes in Sestriere

Students enjoyed an unforgettable week of skiing, snowshoeing, and exploring Italian culture during the Easter holiday ski trip to Italy.

Click here to read more


Duck Hatching 2026

Spring has arrived and so have our next generation of SWA Ducklings!

Click here to read more


Whishaw for the Win

Students showcased confidence and teamwork in this year’s debate event.
Click here to read more


Young Farmers Gather at SWA for Good Friday Tractor Run

Students proudly took part in a local community tradition as the Young Farmers set off on their annual tractor run.

Click here to read more



The Perpetrators of the Holocaust

Understanding the people behind the atrocities.

Article Written by Year 12 students Abigail M and Lily S

Click here to read more


SWA is looking for volunteers to support our Year 10 Mock Interview Day on Monday, 6th July
(8:45am–1:20pm).

Help students build confidence and develop interview skills through short mock interviews and feedback sessions – no experience needed, just a willingness to support young people.

Interested? Email Louisa Freeman for more information.



Whitbread Sports

Keep up to date with all April Whitbread Sports News.

Click here to read


Performing Arts

Keep up to date with all April Performing Arts News.

Click here to read


Sixth Form

Keep up to date with all April Sixth Form News.

Click here to read



Future careers, pathways & options

Click here to read the latest edition of F.C.P.O Newsletter

Community Events and Resources 

Click here to find some great resources for activities and workshops happening in the local community.



     

Samuel Whitbread Academy E-Newsletter
 
You are receiving this because you are a Student, 
Parent, Carer, Governor or Member of Staff at SWA. 
 
Samuel Whitbread Academy
Shefford Road, Clifton, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5QS
Tel: 01462 629900  •  Fax: 01462 629901
Email: swa-info@bestacademies.org.uk