Covid 19 – Special School arrangements from 5th January 2021

Dear Parent/Carer,

 

Re - Covid 19 – Special School arrangements from 5^th January 2021

Following the general government announcement on 4^th January about school closures, we have all been issued with further guidance today which is based on the most recent scientific advice on how to further limit the spread of COVID-19.

 

‘If children can stay safely at home, they should, to limit the chance of the virus spreading. It is important to underline that schools, colleges and other educational establishments remain safe places for children. But the fewer children making the journey to school, and the fewer children in educational settings, the lower the risk that the virus can spread and infect vulnerable individuals in wider society.

 

We understand that it is important to provide access to school for specific groups of children and young people. We are being asked to stay open for children and young people who have a parent who is a key worker, those who are vulnerable and have support from social care and those with an Education Health and Care plan.

 

We recognise that this includes all children and young people in special schools and so this will be exceptionally difficult given that many staff are absent due to self- isolation measures and Union action.

 

We will have to prioritise the offer available to pupils based on the staffing levels we have available and the following considerations;

 

Children and young people

•          whose parents are considered ‘Key workers’

•          who are subject to a Child Protection Plan

•          whose family require significant support from social care (Children in Need)

 

We aim to keep numbers of people on site at a level that does not increase the risk of infection and still provide safe ratios of care. 

 

Once arrangements are in place, parents and carers will be notified individually. Please be mindful that circumstances are likely to change, and we will be risk assessing staffing levels and rates of infection whilst considering government guidelines on a daily basis.

 

We will provide information and resources for children and young people who are not on site at this time. These will be tailored to your child’s needs and will be provided directly by your child’s school. Please do not feel under pressure to deliver a full-time table of learning activities.

 

Warm regards

 

Paul Eckley