Everyone is Welcome
The Aspire Academy is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors.
We value and respect diversity and will make reasonable adjustments to support accessibility and individual needs wherever possible.
If there is anything we can do to make your visit more comfortable or accessible, please speak to a member of staff.
Head’s Blog – October 2026
I hope this finds you well as we settle into the new term. There’s a lot to celebrate at The Aspire Academy this month.
Pupil numbers and demand
I’m proud to share that we now have 118 pupils on roll, with more than 30 young people currently on our waiting list. That continued demand underlines the trust that schools and families place in our caring, trauma-informed approach and the quality of provision our staff deliver every day.
Enrichment: Cadbury World trip for Key Stage 3
All our Key Stage 3 pupils will be enjoying a trip to Cadbury World this month. These visits are a great way to bring our curriculum to life, boost cultural capital, belonging and social confidence and give pupils shared experiences they’ll remember. Thank you to the staff team who have organised the visits and to the families for their permission and support.
Sporting success — Kickboxing in Barnsley
Over the weekend a team of our kickboxers travelled to Barnsley to compete in the 2026 WKO British Open Championships,. They showed excellent spirit and determination in challenging matches. Thank you to the coaches and staff who gave their time and expertise — your commitment makes these opportunities possible and has a real impact on pupils’ self‑belief.
Winter coat collection — Launching now!!
We are launching our Winter coat collection this month. If you can donate a clean, warm coat (all ages and sizes welcome) please drop it at reception. We will distribute donations to families in need within our community and to partners who support young people locally. If any parents or carers can help sort or store donations, please let us know.
Embedding Zones of Regulation and SAM learning
Zones of Regulation: Staff continue to focus on Zones of Regulation each Monday. This consistent weekly session supports pupils to recognise how they’re feeling, practise self‑regulation strategies and begin the week in a calm, predictable way. Please ask your child about their zone at home — small conversations make a big difference.
SAM Learning platform: We are embedding the SAM learning platform across key subjects so pupils can practise core skills independently and track progress. Teachers will set short, focused tasks that link to classroom learning; pupils will receive encouragement and little wins as they build routines.
Thank you to staff and families
None of this happens without the dedication of our staff. Thank you to every colleague — teaching and support — for the compassion and professionalism you bring to school each day. And to families: your partnership matters. If you have feedback about enrichment, the coat collection, Zones of Regulation or SAM tasks, please get in touch.
Finally, if you or someone you know can support the coat drive or help with future enrichment activities, do contact the office. Small contributions from our community make a big difference to our pupils.
With thanks and best wishes,
Simon Stevenson
Head Teacher
