End of Week Newsletter
April 24th 2026
A Message from the Principal
It has been a productive and energetic first week back at Ipswich Academy.
As we move into the summer term, I have been incredibly impressed by how quickly our students have settled back into their routines, demonstrating our core values of Integrity, Excellence, and Community.
Looking Ahead: Early Morning Club
A reminder that starting tomorrow, Monday 27th April, we are launching our new Early Morning Club. From 7:30 AM, students can get a head start on their day. Year 11 students are invited to the Study Hub for quiet revision, while all other year groups are welcome in the Blue Canteen. While we don’t offer a breakfast service yet, we are working hard to introduce this as soon as possible.
Focus on Attendance
Our recent assemblies have highlighted the undeniable link between showing up and succeeding. With Year 11 data showing that students with over 98% attendance are significantly more likely to achieve their target grades in English and Maths, we are pushing for 100% attendance across the board this term. It was fantastic to see so many students already aiming for those Friday Token rewards!
Standards and Expectations
Finally, a thank you to parents for your support with our uniform and punctuality standards. Seeing our students arrive on time, in correct uniform, and with phones “off and away” ensures that our focus remains exactly where it should be: on high-quality learning and teaching. It has been noticed that some students have been bringing mini water pistols to school. Please can parents/carers ensure that their children are aware that they are not allowed in school. If any student is seen using one or is in possession of one, it will be confiscated and the student will be issued a consequence. Thank you in advance for your support.
On Monday, our Year 10 Performing Arts students—alongside Year 9 students considering the subject for GCSE—traded the classroom for the stage at the INK Festival in Halesworth. The day offered a deep dive into the world of contemporary theatre, focusing specifically on new writing and original performance. Our students had the unique opportunity to learn directly from the pros through:
- Professional Workshops: Hands-on sessions led by industry experts.
- Live Performances: Showcasing the best in new, short-form drama.
- Creative Insights: An behind-the-scenes look at how a script transforms from a page into a fully realised production.
The event was a resounding success, sparking plenty of creative inspiration for our budding actors and writers. A huge thank you to the Leiston Education Partnership and Sizewell C for their generosity in inviting us and fully funding this fantastic trip. Opportunities like this are invaluable for giving our students a real-world look at the arts!
There was an electric atmosphere at Ipswich Academy on Tuesday as our U14 football team delivered a masterclass performance, securing a commanding 4-0 victory over Stoke High School. This emphatic win officially books their place in the prestigious South Suffolk Cup Final. The home side dominated the match from the opening whistle, showcasing a perfect blend of tactical discipline and clinical finishing.
- The “Hat-trick Hero”: The undisputed star of the match was Rylan Carpenter. His movement off the ball and lethal accuracy in front of the net proved impossible for the Stoke High defense to contain, earning him a well-deserved hat-trick.
- Sealing the Win: Alfie Askew rounded out the scoring with a composed, well-taken goal to put the result beyond doubt.
- Defensive Excellence: While the strikers grabbed the headlines, our backline remained incredibly organised. Their discipline ensured a clean sheet and stifled every attempt at a comeback from the visitors.
With this momentum behind them, the team now moves forward to the U14 South Suffolk Cup Final. This victory was a true testament to the hard work and “team-first” mentality of the entire squad.
Useful Tips for Parents/Carers
Safeguarding
Notice Secretive Behaviour:
If your teenager is being overly secretive, they may be hiding something they’re worried about. Have a calm conversation to see what’s going on. Let your child’s year team know so we can check in and support them and remind them that free, online counselling is available from Kooth.
Attendance
Address Health Issues Promptly:
If your child is unwell, ensure they get the care they need and return to school as soon as they’re better. Regular attendance is crucial, and every day missed can have an impact.
Reading/Literacy
Create a Homework Routine:
Set a specific time and place for your child to complete their homework each day. Regularly checking their work ensures that literacy tasks are completed to a high standard.
