Newsletters

South Axholme Academy - Spring Term Newsletter, April 2026

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Mrs S Sprack 

CEO of Isle Education Trust (IET)

Mrs S Hamilton -

Principal of South Axholme Academy

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As we reach the Easter break, I’ve found myself reflecting not just on the pace of the term, but on the meaningful shifts happening across South Axholme Academy and the wider Isle Education Trust. Schools often measure progress through data and results, but this term I’ve been most struck by something far less quantifiable: the growing confidence with which our young people express themselves, challenge ideas, and contribute to their community.

At South Axholme, this has been visible in countless moments – students supporting one another through demanding learning, stepping up in performances and competitions, and showing real leadership in everyday interactions. These moments remind us that education is most powerful when students feel ownership of their experiences and recognise their ability to shape their future.

As we look ahead to the summer term, our focus as a Trust remains clear: to keep building the conditions where every young person is known, supported, and stretched. That means championing excellent teaching, investing in our staff, strengthening our curriculum, and celebrating character and creativity alongside academic achievement.

I hope the Easter break brings rest and time together for your family. We are incredibly proud of what students have achieved so far and excited for the opportunities the final term will bring,

Sarah Sprack,

CEO

As I finish my second term at South Axholme, I feel fortunate to have settled into life on the Isle and to have got to know our students, staff, and wider community. 

This term has been full of highlights, with students engaging enthusiastically in lessons, sports, and creative projects, growing in confidence and embracing the SAX Mindset along the way. 

Thank you to our staff for their dedication, especially those supporting year 11 over Easter. I also appreciate the ongoing support from parents and carers and engagement with my surgeries and open events. Most of all, thank you to our students as it is your energy and humour that make South Axholme a special school.

As we head into the Easter break, I hope everyone finds time to relax, enjoy time with family and friends, and have a recharge. For those preparing for exams, remember to pace yourselves.

The summer term has always been my favourite, and I am really looking forward to coming back to see what the next few months bring.

Stephanie Hamilton,

Principal

ATTENDANCE

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Supporting Students: New Ways to Report Concerns

As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping all students safe and supported, we have introduced additional ways for students to report any safeguarding concerns or incidents of unkind behaviour.

To make this process as accessible and confidential as possible, new posters have been placed in key areas around the academy, including:

  • Reception area
  • PALs Office
  • Whole school Teams page

Each poster includes a QR code that students can scan if they wish to report a concern confidentially from a private space. This system allows students to reach out quickly, safely, and discreetly whenever they need support.

We would like to emphasise that students are always welcome to speak directly to any member of staff at the academy if they feel comfortable doing so. Our team is here to listen and help.

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PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAREERS

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TEACHING AND LEARNING 

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DATA AND ASSESSMENT

Year 11 updates

For our Year 11 students, the main focus for them has been the mock examinations. We are proud of the excellent conduct shown throughout the sessions.

Well-planned revision is essential for success, and we remind you of the Revision Section on the Academy website. 

Mr P Forster- Director of Data and Assessment

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Every Lesson Counts

With the summer examination series approaching, it is vital that students make every lesson count. High attendance, a strong attitude to learning, and completing home learning to the best of their ability will make a significant difference to their progress.

Some subjects also include coursework. Students should ensure all coursework elements are completed to the highest standard, so they enter the summer exams confident that part of their qualification is already secured.

Lunchtime and After-School Revision Sessions

As shared previously, staff are running a programme of lunchtime and after-school revision sessions, open to all students.

Please encourage your child to attend. The schedule for these sessions can be found below.

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Celebration Assemblies

During the final week of term, each year group has held a Celebration Assembly to recognise students’ hard work and achievements. Certificates have been awarded for:

  • Top Attitude to Learning (ATL)
  • Most Improved ATL
  • Zero Behaviour Points
  • Top Achievement Points
  • 100% Attendance

If your child has brought home one of these certificates, please do congratulate them—they reflect your child's effort, progress, and commitment throughout the term.

Upcoming Parents' Evening

Year 7 – 23 April 2026

Year 8 - 7 May 2026

Year 10 Parents' Evening -

Getting GCSE Ready  

As the students in Year 10 approach the end of their first year of Key Stage 4, and with their main examinations a year away, we would like to invite you into school on Wednesday 3 June 2026 to attend a ‘Getting GCSE Ready’ event.  Please look out for your invite during the summer term.

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SCANS

Scans are our way of sharing Progress and Attitude to Learning with parents and students. Every student has received their first Scan this term, and the second will follow next term:

  • Year 11 – w/c 30 March 2026

  • Year 10 – w/c 13 July 2026

  • Year 9 – w/c 13 July 2026

  • Year 7 & 8 – w/c 6 July 2026

Year 11

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Trips and Visits

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INDIVIDUAL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS OUTSIDE THE ACADEMY

It is always great to hear about what students have done in their free time, and Mrs Hamilton loves to acknowledge individual achievements. 

We have highlighted just a few below.

Please keep sending these fantastic achievements to us as we always like to read about our inspiring students.

HENRY LEE - Year 9


We are delighted to share that Henry Lee (Year 9) has successfully achieved his black belt in Taekwondo this afternoon.

This accomplishment reflects an exceptional level of perseverance, resilience, and determination demonstrated by Henry.

Throughout his training, he has shown unwavering focus and commitment, consistently working toward this significant milestone.

We are immensely proud of Henry’s dedication and hard work, and he is understandably thrilled to have reached this achievement.

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ADAM CROSSFIELD - YEAR 11


Outstanding Success for Adam at the Ultimate North East Open

On Sunday 1 March, Adam represented his club at the Ultimate North East Open in Newton Aycliffe. Now eligible to compete in both the Junior and Senior categories, he chose to challenge himself by entering both divisions, a decision that demonstrated remarkable ambition and determination.

Throughout the event, it was so good to see the results of Adam’s dedicated Taekwondo training and consistent gym work. It proved to be an exhausting yet exhilarating day, marking the greatest number of matches he has ever competed in over the course of a single event.

Adam delivered an exceptional performance:

  • 6 fights
  • 6 wins
  • 2 gold medals
  • Champion in both Junior and Senior categories

His success contributed to an excellent overall result for his club, with Scorpion Taekwondo proudly taking home the team trophy.

A tremendous achievement—well done, Adam!

Picture: Adam Crossfield at the Event

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Congratulations to Freya!

A huge well-deserved well done to Freya, who has officially signed for the Sheffield Wednesday U12s squad. This is an outstanding achievement and reflects her hard work, commitment, and talent.

A massive congratulations, Freya! We are incredibly proud of you.

Picture: Freya at Sheffield Wednesday

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Thomas White - Year 8

Thomas Impressive Steam Engine Project

We are incredibly proud of Thomas for the effort and skill he has put into his steam engine project.

Completing the build in under four hours is an outstanding achievement in itself, but his learning went far beyond construction.

Thomas explored the use of deionised water, methylated spirits, and the mechanics of a working steam engine, and even managed to connect it to a turbine-powered lamp—a brilliant demonstration of curiosity and practical problem-solving.

It is also wonderful to hear that he was able to work alongside his grandad throughout the project, making the experience both educational and memorable.

Well done, Thomas!

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James White - Year 7

Year 7 – James’ Jet Ski Success

A huge well done to James in Year 7, who recently competed in a Jet Ski competition at Fosshill Lake Jet Ski Centre.

James achieved Best Newcomer and also secured an impressive 2nd place overall in the competition. We are incredibly proud of his determination and talent.

It was also lovely that James brought his trophies into the academy to share his success with us.

Well done, James!


Home Learning


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For a reminder about how parents and students can log into satchel one, please see the link to the website here.



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EXTRA-CURRICULAR SPORTING ACTIVITIES 


Our sports teams are very active at the academy and our PE staff continue to attend many sports and team games throughout the year competing against other schools.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the most up to date results

Mr Spouncer, Subject Leader - PE

Read below to find out what our sporting teams have been doing this term.


Year 11 Football – National Cup Semi-Final

We are incredibly proud of our Year 11 Football Team for reaching the National Cup semi-final. The team played with real determination and skill, but were unfortunately beaten 1–0 on 25 March 2026, just missing out on a place in the final.

It was a fantastic game, and we are extremely proud of every player and the hard work, commitment, and teamwork they have shown throughout the season.

Picture: Year 11 Football Team 2026 (below)

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U16 Team Achieve Second Place at Scunthorpe Schools' Football Tournament

A huge well done to our U16 football team, who secured 2nd place in the Scunthorpe Schools' Football Tournament on 2 February. The whole squad delivered a strong and determined performance throughout the competition.

Goals from Holly and Lillybeth earned the team a confident 2–0 win in their match, contributing to their overall success.

Congratulations to all involved on an excellent achievement!

Picture: Team (Right)

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Cross Country Success at the Humberside Schools Competition

A huge congratulations to Beth, Isla and Oliver, who achieved first place in their age group at the Humberside Schools Cross Country event on 20 January 2026!

This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to their determination, effort and athletic ability. We are extremely proud of all three students.

Picture: Students with medals (Right)

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Sports Teams  2025 - 2026

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SAX Welcomes Primary Schools


Primary School Visits – Spring Term

This term, we were delighted to continue welcoming Year 3 pupils from Belton CofE Primary, Wroot Primary School, and Epworth Primary School.

The children took part in a variety of Science, History, and PE lessons designed to enrich their learning and give them an exciting insight into life at secondary school. They approached every activity with great enthusiasm and curiosity.

A big thank you to all of our student helpers, who supported staff and helped make these sessions such a positive experience for our visitors.

Picture: Primary Children (below)

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FUNDRAISING AT THE ACADEMY 

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18 Jan 2026
Student Careers
YEAR 10 CAREERS ASSEMBLY
Read more
06 Jan 2026
What is on in the PE Department - Spring Term 2026
For activities in the PE Department please view the schedule attached.
Read more
25 Mar 2026
Non Uniform Day to Support Foodshare Project
Thursday 2 April 2026 - Non Uniform Day
Read more
25 Mar 2026
Year 11 GCSE Examination Preparation Evening
Year 11 GCSE Examination Preparation Evening - An Evening with Dr van der Spoel - Wednesday 25 March 2026, from 5.00pm – 6.30pm 
Read more
16 Mar 2026
Year 9 Options Event
YEAR 9 OPTIONS EVENING - WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH 2026
Read more

STUDENT SERVICES AND ADMIN

LOCKERS

There are still some lockers available at the academy should you wish for your child to have one for use for the remainder of this academic year.

Please see the academy website for further information via the link below. 

https://www.southaxholmeacademy.co.uk/page/?title=Locker+Infomation&pid=71

There is always a reduction in the price when you order your locker later in the term!

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Summer Term

Year 7 Parents' Evening 4.30pm - 7.30pm
4:30pm – 7:30pm
23
April
School Production Legally Blonde 6pm
6:00pm – 7:30pm
28
April
School Production Legally Blonde 6pm
6:00pm – 7:30pm
29
April
SAX Mindset Day 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
30
April
School Closed Bank Holiday
8:40am – 3:10pm
04
May
Year 8 Parents' Evening 4.30pm - 7.30pm
4:30pm – 7:30pm
07
May
GCSEs Commence
8:40am – 3:10pm
11
May
Year 8 Assessment block 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 18 May until 22 May
18
May
Last Day Before Half Term
8:40am – 3:10pm
22
May
May Half Term
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 25 May until 29 May
25
May
Year 8 Assessment Block 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 01 Jun until 05 Jun
01
June
Year 10 Parents' Evening - Getting GCSE Ready
5:30pm – 6:30pm
03
June
Year 7 Assessment block 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 08 Jun until 12 Jun
08
June
Low Mill
9:00am – 3:00pm
from 08 Jun until 10 Jun
08
June
Year 9 Assessment block 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 15 Jun until 19 Jun
15
June
Year 7 Assessment Block 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 15 Jun until 19 Jun
15
June
Year 10 Assessments
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 17 Jun until 19 Jun
17
June
Trip - Lincs Show
8:40am – 3:10pm
17
June
Last GCSE
8:40am – 3:10pm
17
June
Trip - Lincs Show
8:40am – 3:10pm
18
June
Sports Day Whole School
8:40am – 3:10pm
19
June
Year 11 Prom
7:00pm – 11:00pm
19
June
Year 9 Assessment block 3 / Year 10 Assessments
8:40am – 3:10pm
22
June
NLC Taster Day - Y10
8:40am – 3:10pm
23
June
Music Summer Showcase 6.00pm
6:00pm – 7:30pm
24
June
Year 6 Taster Day 3
8:40am – 3:10pm
01
July
Year 6 Parents' Evening 5.30pm - 6.30pm
5:30pm – 6:30pm
01
July
Year 7 Scan 3 and Year 8 Scan 3 to Students and Parents
8:40am – 3:10pm
06
July
London Trip Year 8
8:40am – 3:10pm
from 07 Jul until 08 Jul
07
July
SAX Mindset Day 4
8:40am – 3:10pm
08
July
SAX Mindset Day 5
8:40am – 3:10pm
09
July
Year 9 Scan 3 and Year 10 Scan 3 shared with students and parents
8:40am – 3:10pm
13
July
Academy End of Year Awards Evening 6pm
6:00pm – 7:00pm
15
July
Last Day Before Summer Holidays
8:40am – 3:10pm
17
July

Uniform

If you have any football boots that don't fit - bring them to us, and we will ensure that they are loved again on the right sized feet!

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Get organised and sort out your academy uniform! See our website (here) for full details.

Don’t forget if you have any old uniform / text books that you would like to donate, please bring into the academy and leave at student reception. This will go a long way to support members of our community

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Important Reminders for Families

Before your child returns in the new year, we would like to share a couple of important reminders to help keep things running smoothly:

Bus Passes

It is essential that your child carries their bus pass for travel on their allocated transport provider.  The bus drivers do ask on occasions, and it is vital that they are ready for this challenge.

If you need to apply for a new bus pass, please contact the local authority for North Lincolnshire residents:

www.northlincs.gov.uk/forms/schooltransport/Replacement

Students who live in the Nottinghamshire area should contact Notts Council.

Tel: 0115 9773916  email: travelassistance@notts.gov.uk

Label All Clothing

Please ensure that all items of clothing your child brings to school are clearly labelled with their name. This simple step makes it much easier for us to return lost items to their rightful owners.

Keep Contact Details Up to Date

It’s essential that we have your most current contact information. Please take a moment to check and update your details on Arbor. This ensures we can reach you quickly if needed.

A Note on Dropping Off Items During the Day

As stated in Mrs Hamilton's letter earlier this term, we have removed our old internal phone system, which previously allowed reception to contact classrooms directly. While this change has helped reduce interruptions to learning, it now means that our admin team must personally deliver any items brought in during the day. As you can imagine, their capacity to do this is limited.

If you drop off items such as PE kits, lunchboxes, or other forgotten belongings, we cannot guarantee they will reach your child in time.

What We Ask

Please ensure that students come to school fully prepared with everything they need for the day. We understand that occasional emergencies do arise, and we will continue to assist where absolutely necessary.

Thank you for your continued support and involvement in our school community.

Academy Office

Stay in Touch via Facebook or Instagram and remember that you can view our website for the following information:

  • Uniform details

  • Calendar dates

  • Trips and visits

  • Policies

  • Curriculum

  • Letters from the Principal

  • Latest news

  • Menu choices

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Contact Information and Permissions

During inclement weather or an emergency, should we have to make a decision to close the academy, we will email parents.  Information will also be posted on our website (where possible).  Please visit our Policies and Documents section for further details here.  Also, ensure that you have ticked in the 'consent' section in Arbor that you agree to your child's emergency plan should we need to send your child home.

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Arbor

We now have 99% of our parents/carers registered with the Arbor App. 

Don't miss out! 

If you have not activated your account, please contact the academy and we will send you the information that you will need to register.

This is an excellent way to view your child's dashboard which includes attendance data and achievements.

In addition, you can update your personal information without needing to contact the academy.  Please see the link below to access your account.

https://login.arbor.sc/

Finally, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your family for a restful break and a happy Easter.

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South Axholme Academy

Burnham Road 

Epworth

Doncaster

DN9 1BY

admin@southaxholme-iet.co.uk

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