Newsletters

Year 10, Mrs Abbott

What a fantastic start to Year 10!

I'd like to introduce myself as the new Head of Year 10. It is an honour to be the Head of Year and I have received a very warm welcome to SWA by the year group. I have already managed to meet and speak with a variety of parents and look forward to getting to know many more. 

My first impressions are very positive, Year 10 are focussed and are able to show maturity within their GCSE option choices. Please be aware that the deadline for swapping option choices has now passed.

Thank you for your support at home checking that they come to school on time, in correct uniform and prepared for the day ahead. We love a positive start to the day.

We will work together to continue to thrive and achieve in these important years leading up to their GCSE exams.

Keep up the good work!

Year 11, Miss Joy

As we approach the end of the first half-term, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our Year 11 students on what has been a very positive start to the academic year. Students have returned with a mature attitude, showing commitment to their studies and engaging well in lessons as they begin this important year.

I would also like to thank all parents and carers who attended our Welcome Evening. It was fantastic to see such a high level of parental support and engagement. Working together as a school community is vital in helping our young people achieve their full potential and we greatly appreciate your continued support.

Looking ahead, we have our Year 11 Parents & Careers Evening on 12th November 2026. This event will provide valuable information, guidance and opportunities for students as they begin to consider their next steps beyond Year 11. We strongly encourage both students and parents to attend.

Students should also be aware that their mock examinations begin on 16th November 2026. These exams provide an important opportunity to experience exam conditions and identify strengths and areas for development ahead of the summer examinations. Consistent attendance, organisation and effective revision will be key to success.

As we head into the half-term break, we encourage all students to enjoy a well-earned rest while maintaining a healthy balance between relaxation and revision. Short, focused periods of study alongside time to unwind, spend time with family and pursue hobbies can help students return refreshed and ready for the next half-term.

Finally, we would like to remind students of the importance of maintaining our high standards of uniform and behaviour. Year 11 plays a significant role in setting an example for younger year groups. By continuing to wear their uniform with pride and demonstrating positive conduct around school, they act as excellent role models for the wider school community.

Thank you for your ongoing support. We wish all our students and families a restful and enjoyable half-term break.

Year 13, Mr Tonking

It’s been a busy start to the year and I know many students are feeling the pressure of upcoming exams and next steps. We will continue to offer as much support and guidance as we can to help them navigate this time.

We have an Online Parent Review Evening coming up on 22nd October. This will be their last parents' evening in education. We want to encourage you to book appointments at this pivotal point in the year. 

Our Internal Progression Exams begin on Monday 23rd November for two weeks (Graphics take place a week earlier). The timetable has been published and students have been notified. This can be a stressful time for students as it is our last opportunity to have students in exam conditions before the summer. We try to provide as much time as possible in registration to help them plan or undertake revision, but of course you should be seeing active revision at home. If you have concerns about their preparation and readiness for these exams, please contact their tutor and/or subject teachers in the first instance.

We are currently working towards the Christmas deadline for university UCAS applications. While the process has already been shared with students, please remember that every applicant must attend a final review meeting with myself, Mr Huckle or Mrs Hoad before their application can be submitted. These appointments should be booked through Miss Collins in the Sixth Form office.

For students considering Apprenticeships or Degree Apprenticeships, Miss Hopkins is coordinating support during morning registration. Should students want more guidance, they can speak with their tutors, the Sixth Form team, Miss Hopkins or the Careers Team.

Finally, take time to balance rest and revision this half-term.

Year 8 Open Evening

A huge thank you to all the families who joined us for our Year 8 Open Evenings this September. From record attendance at our Principal’s presentations to interactive department showcases... it was fantastic to give prospective students a true taste of life at Samuel Whitbread Academy!

Click here to read more...