Update on School Provision for Children of Critical Workers
Update on School Provision for Children of Critical Workers
Dear Parents and Carers,
Firstly, we would like to thank you for your continued support during this time; your patience is very much appreciated. As you are aware we are awaiting an announcement from the Government on the re-opening of schools from 8th March. We have no information currently as to whether this will be a phased or full reopening; although we are ever hopeful of the latter.
For the first two weeks after the half term break, we will be continuing to allocate spaces for children who are deemed vulnerable and those with at least one parent or carer who is a critical worker – that is “parents whose work is critical to the coronavirus and EU transition response”. Unfortunately, this means many parent’s jobs are not counted as ‘critical work’.
Demand for places has risen significantly over the last few weeks and is expected to rise again after half term. We intend to meet requests from critical workers for their children to attend school however, there is a maximum number of children that we can safely have in groups and classrooms. Bookings will now only be available on a week by week basis to enable us to keep numbers under constant review; therefore, parents need to be aware that at any time places may not be available due to capacity limits and/or staff availability.
We would ask parents of those children who currently attend school:
- To only book a school place if it is absolutely essential and there is no-one within the home that could care for your child whilst you are out at work.
- If your working pattern changes and you no longer require a place please notify the school office team on [email protected] as soon as possible to allow other children to be accommodated.
- The vast majority of parents have been booking a ‘pattern’. Please contact the school before increasing or altering the pattern so we can discuss your requirements. The use of the Parents Evening Booking System does not guarantee your child a place.
As places are limited, please could we ask parents who currently use the provision to review your current requirements. If you or anyone from your support bubble is able to look after your child on additional days please could you let us know as soon as possible. This would allow us to accommodate more children.
Additionally, if your circumstances have changed and you are now returning to a critical worker role and require a place for your child, please telephone the school office to discuss your requirements. Please be aware that there is very limited availability.
Yours sincerely
Mrs Sam Hodder
Principal
