Dear Parents and Carers

These are unprecedented times and I would like to thank parents, carers and schools for their support over the last week, these are difficult times for everyone.

Following the government announcement last week that schools are to close for the majority of children.

Our schools have been asked to remain open for children of key workers and vulnerable children. The majority of our schools are currently remaining open and will do so, for as long as they possibly can. Many will try to provide some provision over the Easter holidays.

This is a fast-changing time and so when it becomes difficult for schools to remain open, we will move to a hub system in each area. We will notify parents and carers as soon as these arrangements are in place.

We ask that you follow the advice provided by the government. Please follow the link for the latest guidance from the government for parents and carers:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers

However, we would like to draw your attention to the following paragraph:

If children can stay safely at home, they should, to limit the chance of the virus spreading. That is why the government has asked parents to keep their children at home, wherever possible, and asked schools to remain open only for those children who absolutely need to attend.

For those of you with children who are entitled to free school meals please speak to the school as they have local arrangements in place.

Many of our schools are operating a triage system and will be prioritising children with parents who are both key works, single parents who are key workers and vulnerable children. We ask you to support your school and work with them through these challenging times.

Please be assured that we are all working together to ensure that we can provide support for all our families. 

Stay safe

Regards

VICKY BUCHANAN                                                             TRICIA DAVIES

DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN'S SERVICES                       INTERIM HEAD OF EDUCATION