Issue 921: 5th March 2021

Further to my letter sent yesterday, I do hope that you now have all of the information you need with regards to the return to school arrangements. To confirm, in order to enable us to test as many pupils as possible before resuming face-to-face learning, the phased return will be as follows:

 Of course, if your child is displaying any COVID related symptoms, they should not come into school, but must make an appointment, via the Government’s website, to take a PCR test as soon as possible. 

Early next week you will receive the schedule for the 2^nd and 3^rd in-school tests that we are required to carry out.  Once these have been completed, all pupils and students will be issued with home-testing kits which include instructions on how to administer the test and report the results to the NHS and to us at school.  Please keep an eye on your emails for further information.

Whilst we can all see some light at the end of the tunnel, it is still important we continue to move forward carefully.  As the country is still in a form of lockdown, please can I ask you to remind your son/daughter that they must comply with social distancing at all times, should not congregate outside of school, but go straight home at the end of the school day.  Thank you for your support with this.  I am sure a cautious approach will be worth it in the end.

Essex County Council has asked us to share with you a reminder on how pupils and students can travel to and from school safely:

• If you live a short distance from school, walk, cycle or scoot to and from school wherever it is possible and safe to do so;
• Avoid sharing a car with anyone outside of your household or support bubble;
• If you are using public transport to get to school, please try to plan ahead and allow a little more time for your journey;
• When you are travelling by public or dedicated school transport, please don’t forget to:
  • wear a face covering (unless you are exempt) for the entirety of your journey, including inside the bus or train station
  • social distance where possible
  • wash or sanitise your hands regularly
  • be considerate to fellow passengers and staff

Thank you for your support with this.