Newsletters

May 2026 E-Newsletter 

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A Message from Principal, Mr Martin

As we look ahead to the final term of the school year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on some of the many successes and achievements from this past term before we begin gearing up for a busy and exciting summer.

At the end of April, we were incredibly proud to see our Under 18 Boys crowned ESFA National Champions in Stoke. This historic achievement is a tremendous milestone for the academy and a testament to the dedication, talent and hard work of the players, coaching staff and our Director of Football, Mr Goldman. This was the third year in a row that we have reached the final, and so we would also like to congratulate the players and coaches from the two previous teams, especially Dan Kemp, who played in all three finals!

This term, our Year 10 students took part in their work experience placements. We were delighted that the number of students securing placements rose from 271 to an impressive 301. Work experience provides a valuable opportunity for students to gain insight into the world of work, build confidence and explore future career pathways. I would like to thank all the local businesses and organisations that supported our students and helped make this experience possible, as well as Mrs Freeman, for all her hard work in organising so many placements.

We have also recently said goodbye to our Year 11 and Year 13 students as they begin their study leave for the final stage of their examinations. It was wonderful to celebrate with them at their leavers’ events, and I wish every student the very best for the remainder of their exams and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. I would like to thank the Year 11 team, the sixth form, and all the staff who helped with the music, video and BBQ, as well as the school band and the Y12 students who helped to make the video.

There have been many more fantastic moments across the academy this term, many of which you will read about throughout this newsletter — from the BEST Summer Arts Festival preparations to a wide range of sporting and academic achievements.

As we approach the half-term break, I hope all members of our community can enjoy some well-deserved rest, spend time with loved ones and make the most of the sunshine. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for what promises to be another memorable term at the academy.


Messages From Heads of Year 

Year 9, Mr Rich

Closing this half-term has been a real joy, with our Year 9 students continuing to achieve and excel across so many areas of school life.

A huge well done to our Super-Curriculum stars, who have gone above and beyond to challenge themselves and extend their learning even further.

Congratulations also to our scientists who achieved their Bronze CREST Award, presenting thoughtful, articulate and impressively in-depth projects to a panel of science staff.

Bravo to our Duke of Edinburgh adventurers following their successful and eventful expeditions!

And finally, applause all round to our incredible athletes, as several school seasons draw to a close with our teams finishing strongly at the top end of the table.

As we return for the final term of Year 9, we are excited to continue celebrating success and to support students as they begin building towards KS4 with their chosen subjects.

A great term all round, but here’s to a flying finish!

Mr Rich and the Year 9 Team


Year 10, Miss Joy

As we come to the end of a demanding and challenging term, I would like to take a moment to recognise and celebrate the incredible effort shown by Year 10. Throughout this period, they have demonstrated outstanding resilience, determination, and commitment.

In particular, we were extremely impressed with the way you approached the mock examinations. Your engagement and focus during this time did not go unnoticed. You rose to the challenge with a positive mindset and a willingness to work hard, which is something you should all be very proud of.

It has also been fantastic to see the success of your recent work experience placements. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many of you being praised for your professionalism, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. These experiences are invaluable and will undoubtedly put you in good standing as you begin to think about your future pathways.

Beyond the classroom, I would also like to commend you for the way you consistently act as role models around school. Your high standards in uniform, behaviour, and attitude set a strong example for younger students and contribute greatly to our school community. You represent the year group with pride and maturity each day.

Well done to all of you for your hard work this term. Keep up the excellent effort as we move forward. I am confident there are many more successes ahead!

Mrs Joy and the Year 10 team


Year 11, Mrs Godfrey

With Year 11 now officially on study leave, I wanted to share a quick note to say a massive thank you to all the parents and carers. You've been a brilliant support system, and we couldn't have reached the finish line without you! Our End of Year Celebrations went down a treat! It was so great to see the students letting off steam and celebrating together. I’m honestly so proud to be their Head of Year. They’ve grown into a fantastic group of young adults.

Just a reminder that even though they aren't in the building every day, we haven't disappeared. If anyone hits a brick wall with revision or just needs a bit of a pep talk, please tell them to get in touch with their teachers or the Year Team. We're still here to help!

Prom tickets will be handed out on Monday 15th June, after the Physics exam. We’re so excited to see everyone dressed up and celebrate one last time!

Best of luck to all the students with the rest of their exams.

Year 11 Team 



Academy News 

Samuel Whitbread Academy Crowned ESFA U18 National Champions in Historic Victory

The victory marks a landmark moment for SWA, who have become the first state school to win the competition since 2016.

Click here to read more


A Fond Farewell to Years 11 & 13

May is always a month filled with mixed emotions, as we celebrate the achievements of our Year 11 and Year 13 students while also saying goodbye as they begin study leave ahead of their final exams.

Click here to read more


Celebrating our Brilliant Club Graduates

Year 10 and Year 12 students were recognised for their hard work and academic achievement in the Brilliant Club Programme.

Click here to read more


Community Events & Resources

Here are some great resources for activities and workshops happening in the local community.

Click here to read more


Fundraiser for Amelie

Our SWA community keeps pupil Amelie and her family in our thoughts as she bravely faces leukaemia for the fifth time.
A fundraiser has been set up to support Amelie and her family during this difficult time.
Please click here to donate/share this cause.


BEST Summer Arts Festival

The BEST Summer Arts Festival is back for another incredible evening celebrating creativity across the trust. Enjoy live music, dance and drama performances, stunning student artwork, and a selection of delicious food and drink throughout the evening.

Don’t miss this fantastic community event, we’d love to see you there!

Click here to book your tickets.

 


Whitbread Sports

Keep up to date with all May Whitbread Sports News.

Click here to read


Performing Arts

Keep up to date with all the May Performing Arts News.

Click here to read

Sixth Form

Keep up to date with all May Sixth Form News.

Click here to read


Future careers, pathways & options

Keep up to date with all May F.C.P.O News.

Click here to read



     

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