S.P.A. Newsletter – May 2026

Welcome to our latest newsletter. There is much to report, and I am especially pleased that it reflects the full breadth of S.P.A.’s work: networking, training, research, communications and lobbying.

We are particularly keen to encourage members from across the country to join us at our Summer Forum on 4th June, hosted by Eastbourne College. We have in store an excellent line-up of speakers discussing local and national partnership issues and it promises to be a valuable opportunity for networking, bringing together long-standing supporters of S.P.A. with many enthusiastic new members. More info below.

You will also see details of a special CPD training opportunity at Alleyn’s on 19 June, led by Margaret Hunnaball, our Director of Research and Programmes, alongside our associate Christina Astin.

This edition also highlights Margaret’s recent research into sports partnerships and provides an update on our lobbying work to promote greater understanding of the value of state-independent school partnerships.

This newsletter has been put together by Janine and I want to end this introductory note by paying credit to her for advancing our communications and membership strategies since she joined us in late 2025.

Joe Spence, CEO.