Half Term Update - 20/10/2023

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

What a fantastic first half term of the academic year it has been! Our new Year 7 students, the largest ever cohort to join Sewell Park Academy have settled in exceptionally well - learning our social routines and demonstrating our core values as a school. These core values of being calm, engaged, respectful and creative have been at the forefront of the development of the school.

Year 11 Pre-Public Examinations (PPEs)

Our current Year 11 students have their PPEs (Pre-Public Examinations) after half term. Revision and Review work for over half term has been set on Google Classroom to help their preparation for these - I know the rest of the school community will support them by demonstrating calm conduct around the site as usual while these are taking place.

Attendance & Uniform

Thank you to all of you for your support in ensuring our students attend well at Sewell Park. For this half term, our attendance is well above the average of the other Norwich secondary schools, which demonstrates the support for learning across the board.

I would also like to say thank you for your support in helping students at Sewell Park look so smart in their attendance at the school. This continues to support our young people to reach high standards within the Norwich area both socially and academically. Our expected uniform can be found HERE, if there are any issues regarding the purchase of items, please contact us and we will look to support wherever possible.

Electric vehicles

In the wider society, the use of electric vehicles, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, has become more commonplace. However, in many cases, the use of these breaks the law. All forms of transport of this type are not permitted at Sewell Park Academy, due to safety reasons and will be confiscated and referred to the Police.

SPA Canteen arrangements

The quality of food served at SPA, in regards to nutritional benefit and value for money, has been a concern of ours in recent times, and as such have acted to make changes in this area. As part of Broad Horizons Education Trust (BHET), we are delighted to be welcoming Aspens to take over the running of the canteen and food at the school. The trust has worked closely with Aspens during the selection process and after half term we will see new menus at the school (sample menus attached). These new menus will feature a broad selection of meal options, including vegetarian and vegan choices, as well as meals inspired by different cultures.

The price of a meal will be increasing slightly to £2.50 as agreed as part of the new BHET partnership with Aspens Services Ltd. We understand that any increase in expenses can be a concern for families, and we want to assure you that this decision has been made after careful consideration and a thorough review of operating costs. As a Trust committed to delivering excellence in education and student well-being, it is essential for us to offer your child a wide array of nutritious, balanced and substantial meals. Working alongside Aspens Services Ltd, the trust has taken several factors into account, including a higher quality of food, rising food costs, enhanced meal options, and the need to ensure that our menu meets the highest standards of nutrition and the necessary regulatory requirements.

With the colder months fast approaching and the rising costs of utility bills & food, there are a wide range of local and national charities, groups and organisations that can help support you and your families with any challenges you may be facing. Please visit our website for more information.

Please have a well deserved break and half term together and we look forward to welcoming back our students on 30th October.

Best wishes,

David Day

Headteacher

Aspens Sample Menu

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