Coronavirus – School Closure Update

As you will be aware, the Government has taken the decision to close schools as from Monday 23 March to all students except the children of key workers and vulnerable pupils. This means that for the vast majority of students their last day in school will be Friday 20 March. This closure is until further notice.

Last night guidance was issued by Government and it states that the most recent scientific advice on how to further limit the spread of COVID-19 is clear. If children can stay safely at home, they should, to limit the chance of the virus spreading. This guidance has been provided to us: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronaviruscovid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintainingeducational-provision

They have set out 4 key principles:

1. If it is at all possible for children to be at home, then they should be.

2. If a child needs specialist support, is vulnerable or has a parent who is a critical worker, then educational provision will be available for them.

3. Parent/carers should not rely for childcare upon those who are advised to be in the stringent social distancing category such as grandparents, friends, or family members with underlying conditions.

4. Parent/carers should also do everything they can to ensure children are not mixing socially in a way which can continue to spread the virus. They should observe the same social distancing principles as adults.

The School has written to parent/carers today outlining the school provision available for students from Monday 23 March that classify as vulnerable or have a parent/carer as a key worker. No other students will be permitted to attend school.

I do appreciate that for many parent/carers, the closure of your school will make life even more difficult for you during what I know are extraordinarily challenging times.

In terms of school planning for this closure we are entering Phase 1 which lasts until the start of the Easter Holiday. During this time students that are not able to attend school should continue with learning at home using the resources made available on the Welling School Home Study Hub: https://sites.google.com/wellingschool-tkat.org/welling-homestudy

Phase 2 covers the Easter holiday where the school will be making arrangements for children of key workers and vulnerable pupils to access child care.

Phase 3 covers the start of the summer term up until May Half Term. The School has started to prepare for Phase 3 and will be implementing a programme of study that students will need to be followed on a daily basis.

I realise this is a very challenging time for everyone and appreciate your continued support – we are only able to continue to operate because of your ongoing co-operation and help, and I am very proud of the way everyone has come together to support.

It is important that your child does not lose contact with the school.

We will be sharing with parents/carers next week how the school will continue to keep in touch with students. If parent/carers are facing particular challenges and you think the school may be able to help, do get in touch with the school. On a daily basis the school will be monitoring enquiries@wellingschool-tkat.org.

With very best wishes.

Yours faithfully

Mr R Pett

Headteacher