Luke Price

You will be aware from the news that the Government has announced the phased reopening for schools and academies from 1st June 2020. In Sandwell, we have been looking at how this will be achieved and have worked with our schools and academies to agree a common approach. Schools and academies have reviewed the requirements for social distancing, hygiene and cleaning required daily as well as organisational changes they may need to make to the academic day to open.

You will be aware that since the Academy closed in March, we have continued to provide online learning which we are continually evaluating and improving to help ensure that students remain focused on their education during these unprecedented times. Particularly for Year 10, who will be facing their Key Stage 4 examinations in as little as a year, it is important that students engage in their learning as much as they possibly can. 

Following recent government announcements we are reviewing the provision we have for vulnerable children or children of Key Workers. The Academy has been open to these groups since nationwide closures in March, and we are proud of the provision that has been in place for these children to provide space for them to complete their eLearning.

Following on from the government’s announcements this week, and publication of guidance yesterday, we are revising our plans to enable us to begin limited opening for Years 10 and 12 from 1st June.

Unfortunately, Year 10 Work Experience will be cancelled this year, due to the disruption caused by COVID-19.

Dear Parent/Carer, You may be aware of the stabbing which happened in Smethwick on Sunday 26th April 2020 resulting in a young man losing his life.

  COVID-19 has disrupted the lives of everybody which is why the government introduced a clear set of guidelines for us all to follow around social distancing. The high majority of families and their children in Sandwell are following the guidelines. However, we are starting to see an increase in the amount of children and young people not adhering to these rules. It is really important to follow the social distancing guidelines as it will ensure the NHS is protected and will save lives.

I write to inform you that I have taken the decision to retire from my role as Chief Executive of the Q3 Academies Trust on 31st August 2020. I have thoroughly enjoyed my 35 years in the teaching profession and will hold onto the wonderful memories. However, I am now very much looking forward to ‘slowing down’ and spending quality time with my family.

The Education Secretary has announced that some disadvantaged children are to receive laptops and tablets as part of a drive to make remote education accessible at home during the COVID-19 closure. In addition, the government will also provide 4G routers where families of disadvantaged children do not already have mobile or broadband internet in the household. The government is still working on the details of how this will be rolled out. As soon as we have further information we will contact you directly.