End of Week Newsletter
October 2nd 2026
A Message from the Principal
As we wrap up another fantastic week at Ipswich Academy, I am delighted by the continued positive momentum across our school.
Our classrooms have been buzzing with high-quality teaching and learning, reflecting the outstanding effort and focus our students bring to their studies every day. It has also been inspiring to see the students taking advantage of our after-school clubs this week, with so many young people eager to develop new skills, build friendships, and make the most of our extra-curricular program.
Looking ahead, I would like to remind our Year 11 families of our upcoming ‘Welcome to Year 11’ Event on Thursday 8 October, running from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. This dedicated evening is for Year 11 students and their parents or carers as they prepare to make key decisions about life after secondary school, as well as inform and prepare them for their GCSEs. We will be joined by a host of post-16 providers, giving you and your child the opportunity to explore further education pathways, ask questions, and plan for the future. A separate letter has been sent about the evening and we look forward to seeing you on 8 October for this very important event for year 11 students!
Looking further ahead, I would like to highlight our Year 7 ‘Meet the Teacher’ event on Thursday 15 October. This will be an informal occasion for Year 7 parents and carers to come into school, meet our staff, and see how your child is settling in. Teachers will be available between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, and we look forward to welcoming you.
Please note: This is an informal session with no pre-booked slots. A formal Parents’ Consultation Evening with scheduled appointment times will take place later in the academic year.
Allergies
If your child has an allergy, please let us know. In the event that this changes during the year you must also let us know. We strongly encourage all parents/carers to not send their child to school with any nut products.
Phone Pouches
The introduction of phone pouches has started. This is a positive move to enable a phone free day and get back to the crux of why we’re in school – to focus on the learning.
My letter over the summer holidays has the full details however please note:
- Every child has been (or will be) issued a phone pouch
- They will keep this for the year
- It is a required piece of equipment that must be brought to school every day
- Students are not permitted to have their phones out of this pouch whilst in school at any point (those with medical conditions where phone use is essential will have alternative arrangements)
- If there is any refusal to engage in this, it will lead to a suspension from school
The responses that I have had to my letter so far have been very positive. It is reassuring to know that the parent/carer community is with me on this issue.
Welcome to Year 11 Evening
Year 11 students, parents, and carers: join us as we kick off this vital year and share how we will support your student every step of the way toward GCSE success.
When: Thursday, 8th October 2026 | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Where: Ipswich Academy
What We’ll Cover
- Key expectations for Year 11
- Mock exam schedules and preparation
- Academic intervention and support programs
- Practical tips to help your student feel fully confident and prepared
A separate letter has been sent about the evening and we look forward to seeing you on 8th October for this very important event for year 11 students!
The Big Future National Survey
I am getting in touch personally, as Children’s Commissioner, to ask for your help in making sure the children and young people at Ipswich Academy have the opportunity to take part in my national survey, The Big Future.
So far, I have heard from 25 children at your school. With hundreds of thousands of children and young people already taking part across England, I would like to make sure as many of your pupils as possible have the opportunity to add their voices.
The Big Future is asking children and young people about their lives, their experiences and their hopes for the future. I will be using what they tell me to build a national picture of what matters to children today and to ensure their views are heard by the Government.
The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and can be accessed here: https://www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/thebigfuture.
Thank you
Dame Rachel de Souza
Children’s Commissioner for England
Useful Tips for Parents/Carers
Safeguarding
Be Aware of Radical Views:
If your child starts talking about extreme or unusual beliefs, they may be influenced by something online or in their social circles. Have an open conversation and encourage critical thinking. You can contact Prevent directly if you’re concerned or let us know at school and we can advise you.
Attendance
Prepare for School the Night Before:
Help your child pack their school bag and lay out their uniform before bed. This makes mornings less stressful and avoids any last-minute rush.
Reading/Literacy
Encourage Conversations About New Topics:
Discuss different subjects, such as history, science, or current events, and encourage your child to ask questions.
