Our main goal during severe weather is to ensure the school remains open in a safe environment with adequate staffing. When ice or snow occur, our top priority is to evaluate if we can make the site secure for both adults and children.
While we stay updated with weather forecasts and warnings, some snow and ice conditions can be very localised. What might seem like 'slushy' snow at school can quickly become compacted on frozen ground where children walk. Additionally, the weather may be fine in one area served by the school while being hazardous in another part of the county.
If there is a chance that the school may not be able to open, we will consider the following criteria:
- Is the site safe, and is there secure access to it?
- Can staff travel to work safely?
- Is there an adequate number of staff to ensure appropriate adult to child ratios?
- Can we provide meals at lunchtime?
- Is transport available for our pupils?
When we are certain we have enough staff and safe access to the school, we will proceed to open.
As soon as a closure decision is made, we will notify parents via text, post a message on the school website and social media accounts, and inform the Local Authority. We cannot contact every parent individually, and we kindly ask that parents only call or email the school if absolutely necessary.
Staff at each site will contact School Transport Services should their site be closed.