Whole School Letter – 7 May 2021

Dear Parent/Carer

We would like to start by thanking all of our parents and carers for your ongoing support. We wrote to you last month to outline our plans for the ‘Step Up, not Catch Up’ initiative, which goes live on Monday 7 June, and the feedback from everyone has been really positive. There is a buzz around the school and the students are really keen to move into their new year groups and get back to learning in specialist facilities.

We also want to say a big thank you for your ongoing support regarding COVID safety and our testing regime. In the news last night the threat regarding COVID in schools was highlighted by the rise in cases in an Erewash school. Due to the commitment of our school community, with over 96% of students and all staff submitting results twice a week, we have been able to prevent any outbreaks.

As we approach Monday 17 May and the next stage of the government’s roadmap, it is absolutely essential that we remain vigilant. The power of testing especially allows us to stop any potential spread at the earliest moment and affords us the opportunity to work towards our plan of unlocking key aspects of school life with caution. Please continue to ensure that your child tests twice each week and that the results are submitted to the school and the NHS.

Although no official announcement has been made, a number of national press outlets have suggested that May 17 will also see an announcement regarding the removal of the current requirement for wearing masks in classrooms. As soon as we have any official guidance we will communicate this with everyone.

Lastly, we just want to inform everyone that we have made a number of amendments to the Behaviour Policy in light of the seemingly increased use of social media by students. Whilst mobile phones remain prohibited on the school site, we also want to stress to students and parents that any abuse of individuals or the school on social media will not be tolerated and will be dealt with severely.

I hope you all have a pleasant weekend.

Yours sincerely

Mr S Huntington and Mr M Jones
Executive Principal and Senior Vice Principal