Partial Closure Update from Mr Arnull

Thank you for your support and patience during these testing times. Following government advice, several of our staff have self-isolated and others have stayed with their families if they have been unwell.This has meant that we have had to partially close as we would be otherwise unable to safely staff all lessons.

The decision to close to Years 10 and 12 has not been taken lightly. We have decided to start with Year 10 and Year 12 first as they are older and do not necessarily need supervision at home.  Younger students do need to be supervised and this would add further strain on families who would be required to take time off work. This is especially important for those working in health, care, and education services.

I believe that it is only a matter of time before we are directed to close.

We are supporting the students that we are directing to work from home with resources through our eLearning Hub in addition to resources that are being physically given to, or posted to students. Please be patient as we upload and refresh resources for each Year Group.

For those families whose children are in receipt of Free School Meals, we will post vouchers to your home address in the first instance until the Local Authority finalise their plans. We are working with the Local Authority to co-ordinate action to make sure we keep in contact with students and families that are supported by Social Services.

Further updates will continue to be posted on the Academy website and text messages will be sent to the parents/carers of students directly affected. Please continue to check the website rather than calling the Academy, this will help us to manage this challenging situation far more effectively and also avoid the frustration of your call having to be placed in a queue. You will be notified by text message when the Academy closes/opens to your child’s Year Group.

Given the extreme circumstances, I wish to thank all members of our community for your understanding and compassion during what is a worrying time for all us.

Mark Arnull

Head of School