Newsletters

Umberleigh Weekly Newsletter - Thursday 22nd January 2026



 

Umberleigh Academy

 

 


Building Community; Building Futures; Building Learning Power; Building Self-Esteem


 

Life, Love and Learning to the Full

Dear Parents/Carers

On Tuesday this week, we welcomed Mr Polak, Director of Education, and Mr Norton, Head of School at High Bickington.

During the visit, they spent time in classrooms looking at how adults work alongside our children and the positive relationships that underpin learning across the school. They noted the good standards seen in lessons, particularly in writing, where children are well supported and encouraged to take pride in their work while developing confidence and independence.

There was also a strong focus on how we support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Time was spent reviewing support plans and how these are used in practice, with discussions around ensuring high expectations for all children while meeting individual needs effectively.

Overall, it was a positive and valuable opportunity to reflect on our practice. While it was encouraging to see the good standards and strong teamwork across the school, we are always looking at ways to improve and develop further at Umberleigh Academy, ensuring we continue to provide the very best for our children.

Best wishes

Corrinne Smith

Head of School 

Attendance

Our current whole-school attendance stands at 95.3%. While this is encouraging, we must continue to emphasise how important regular attendance is. Every day missed from school is lost learning, and persistent lateness also has a significant impact on children’s progress, confidence and sense of belonging. Thank you for your continued support in helping children arrive on time, every day.

Treasure Box making in Squirrels 

School Attendance


This week's whole school attendance percentage is:

95.3%

At Umberleigh Academy, we believe that regular and punctual attendance is key to helping children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Further Information

School Calendar


Lunchtime Board Game Club
12:40pm – 1:10pm
from 19 Jan and on Monday each week until 09 Feb
26
January
Lunchtime Story Club
12:40pm – 1:10pm
from 20 Jan and on Tuesday each week until 10 Feb
27
January
Open The Book
All Day
28
January
Lunchtime Choir Club
12:40pm – 1:10pm
from 21 Jan and on Wednesday each week until 11 Feb
28
January
Swimming Lessons Y1,2,4 &6
10:00am – 12:00pm
from 08 Jan and on Thursday each week until 12 Feb
29
January
Let's Walk & Talk
8:45am – 10:00am
30
January
Lunchtime Drawing Club
12:40pm – 1:10pm
from 23 Jan and on Friday each week until 13 Feb
30
January
View school calendar
View term dates

School Lunch Menu

Main Meal in Bold 

V = Vegetarian option 

Jacket potatoes are available everyday with filling choices of:- tune, cheese and / or baked beans.  

The cost of a school lunch is currently:-

Junior (Y3 - Y6) - £2.58 per day 

Infant (R - Y2) – FREE

Brumble Bees - £2.00 per day 

PLEASE NOTE – School Lunch Price Increase from 1st February 26

Junior (Y3 - Y6) - £2.61 per day 

Brumble Bees - £2.05 per day 

 

Latest News

22 Jan 2026
Brumble Bees Monkey Around
Last week Brumble Bees were learning about the book Monkey Puzzle by Julia Donaldson.
Read more
22 Jan 2026
New Art Topic for Squirrels
The squirrel class children enjoyed starting their new art topic. We looked at the colours in space and created a sponge-printed background. We created our own detailed drawing of a rocket and collaged some flames for our rocket boosters. You all made a fantastic mixed space picture. Well done...
Read more
21 Jan 2026
Science Class
Our Fox and Hedgehog classes have been measuring volume using a decibel meter this week in science.
Read more

Celebration of Achievements 


TEAM Multi-Academy Trust Staff Vacancies 

Further Information and Apply Here

Important Notices


Community News


Any articles which appear in the school newsletter that have not been organised by or on behalf of the school, have not been verified by TEAM Multi-Academy Trust as to the suitability for children. The news items are for parent information only.