Parent & Carer Information

This page is for current parents and carers, and for families who are considering Spark Vale Academy. It explains the practical information you need and where to find key policies.

If you cannot find what you need, please contact us and we will help.

Term dates

You can view and download our term dates here:

If you need term dates in a different format, please contact the school office and we will help.

Term dates and inset days

The School Day

We offer a calm, structured day with clear routines to support attendance, engagement, and wellbeing.

A typical day

8.45 to 9.00
9.00 to 9.15
9.15 to 10.00
10.00 to 10.45
10.45 to 11.00
11.00 to 11.45
11.45 to 12.15
12.15 to 13.00
13.00 to 13.30
13.30 to 14.15
14.15 to 14.30

Breakfast Club
Belong and Begin
Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Rest and Recharge
Lesson 3
Lesson 4
Lunch and Clubs
Lesson 5
Lesson 6
Reflect and Thrive

Morning registration: Pupils arrive between 8.45 and 9.15. School finishes: 2.30pm (Monday-Thursday) and 1.30pm on Friday.

Message Our School

Why we structure the day this way

Many of our pupils find busy environments and long days difficult. A calm, predictable structure helps pupils regulate, engage, and make progress. Breaks and movement are planned so pupils can reset and return to learning.

Pastoral support after 2.30pm

The pupil day finishes at 2.30pm. We also provide planned pastoral support and appointments after the school day for some pupils and families. This may include check-ins, transition planning, and meetings with professionals. These are arranged in advance with families.

Attendance & Absences

Regular attendance matters because it supports learning, wellbeing, relationships, and progress.

We aim for at least 90% attendance wherever possible.

Reporting an absence

If your child is unwell or cannot attend, please contact the school as soon as possible on the morning of the first day of absence and provide a reason.

Email: office@sparkvaleacademy.co.uk

Call: 0116 2966569

If we do not hear from you, we will follow up because we need to know your child is safe.

Our approach

Many of our pupils have a history of anxiety and disrupted schooling. We work with families and professionals to build routines, confidence, and stamina over time

Admissions

Uniform & What to Bring

We do not have a school uniform, but we do have an appropriate and comfortable dress code. We do not want clothing to become an additional barrier to attending school.

Pupils should wear comfortable, appropriate clothing for learning and community activities. Clothing should be safe, practical, and suitable for school.