16
Oct

Issue 1137: 16th October 2026

16 October 2026
  • HEADLINES

A Fond Farewell

I would like to inform you that Mr Williams will be leaving Sweyne Park after 22 years of dedicated service to the school.

Since joining us in 2004, Mr Williams has made an outstanding contribution to the Art Department and wider school community. A highly talented artist and experienced teacher, he has inspired countless students to develop their creativity, artistic skills and appreciation of art. His expertise extends beyond the classroom, having exhibited, lectured and delivered workshops at the prestigious Royal Academy.

We have been extremely fortunate to benefit from Mr Williams’ talent, dedication and enthusiasm over the years. He leaves a lasting legacy, and I would like to thank him for his considerable contribution to the school and wish him every happiness and success for the future.

Coming Soon

As we head into the second half of the autumn term, I wanted to remind you about a number of key events that are coming up over the next few months.  More details will follow in due course, but please do make a note in your diary!

Year 11 and Year 13 Mock Exams                                      4th – 20th Nov

Duke of Edinburgh Introduction Evening                        4th November 

Sixth Form Open Evening                                                  10th November

Camps International (Tanzania) Parents’ Meeting        18th November

Year 11 Parents’ Evening                                                      3rd December

Year 13 Parents’ Evening                                                    15th December

We also have a host of trips and visits planned for the rest of the term including a trip to the Royal Courts of Justice, the National Theatre, a Maths Study Day at the University of Essex, Author visits, a variety of sporting fixtures, a number of Remembrance Day events and a Sixth Form Ford Business and Marketing Day.  Please do keep an eye out for more information on all of these events.

And Finally….

It has certainly been a busy and exciting first half-term of the year.  I am particularly proud of how well our Year 7 pupils have settled into life at Sweyne Park and how they have embraced all of the learning and extra-curricular opportunities open to them at secondary school.

I would like to take the opportunity to wish you and your family and happy and restful half-term break.

We will look forward to welcoming all our pupils and students back to school, ready to learn, for 8.35am on Monday 2nd November.

What do you do when you're not in school?

We would love to hear about your hobbies, interests and achievements...

If you have any stories and/or photos that you would like to share, please contact us at pupilservices@sweynepark.com

Charlie Shines at the Regional SEND Awards!

We are incredibly proud of Charlie in Year 7, who recently had the fantastic opportunity to help present the Regional SEND Awards as part of his role as a SEND Ambassador for the Multi Schools Council.

The Regional SEND Awards are a special celebration of the achievements, contributions and successes of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), as well as those who support and champion them. The awards provide an opportunity to recognise individuals who make a positive difference, celebrate inclusion and raise awareness of the importance of ensuring that every young person feels valued, supported and able to achieve their potential.

The Multi Schools Council plays an important role in promoting pupil voice, inclusion and understanding of SEND. Through their work, young ambassadors like Charlie help ensure that the views and experiences of young people are heard and that schools continue to develop inclusive and supportive environments for everyone.

Alongside fellow council members, Charlie took to the stage to help present the awards at this special event. Speaking in front of a large audience is no easy task, particularly with so many lines to remember and deliver, but Charlie rose to the challenge brilliantly!

He spoke with confidence, showed tremendous courage and represented himself, the Multi Schools Council and our school wonderfully.

A huge well done to Charlie for such a fantastic achievement! We are delighted to see him embracing opportunities to make a difference, champion inclusion and inspire others. A truly proud moment for Charlie and our school community!

If you would like to book a slot then please click here.

Try T1 Rugby at

Southend Rugby Club

T1 Rugby is an inclusive, fun, and energetic sport for both boys and girls in Primary and Secondary schools—and parents are welcome to join in with their children, too!

​🏉 Free Local Club Sessions

​Alastair has partnered with Southend Rugby Club to offer weekly sessions for students and parents!

  • ​When: Every Monday, 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
  • ​Where: Southend Rugby Club
  • ​Cost: 100% FREE with no ongoing commitment!

​Come give it a go as a family and enjoy a fantastic non-contact team sport in a friendly environment. We can’t wait to welcome new faces!

​🏫 School Enquiries

​If your school missed Alastair’s recent email and would like details on bringing T1 Rugby to your students, please get in touch: