COVID-19 INFO

Tuesday 5th January 2021

Key worker provision from Tuesday 5th January

Dear Parents and Carers

In response to those of you have emailed requests, provision is available from Tues 5th Jan, if required, for children of those identified as keyworkers in the link below and, from Wednesday (bookable via ParentMail form), due to the reduced staffing capacity, priority will be given to households where both parents and/or carers are critical workers.  We are strongly urging you to care for child/children at home where they can access our updated online provisions. 

For further clarification regarding the arrangements for the provision this week:

• Packed lunches will need to be provided from home this week while we adjust catering provisions. We aim to have dinners available from Monday 11th for children accessing the provision.
• The children can wear school uniform but don't have to, the key is they have suitable attire for outdoor activities. 
• Children can access the provision between 8:45 and 3:30pm this week at Dunster First School.
• Drop off and collection point will be at the front of the school in the big playground.
• If your child has an EHCP or is on the SEND register and/ or has a bespoke curriculum provision, please contact us first thing by email for us to liaise with you over the safest way for them to access provision should you wish them to be classed as a vulnerable learner and access onsite provision. 

Key workers and vulnerable learner definition information: 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision

I am aware many of you who are not able to access the provision may be concerned about the prospect of home learning.  We will be making this as accessible as possible and working on rotas that allow our staff not only the time with the pupils on site but to also properly support this aspect of remote learning. 

In addition, news of this lockdown may have significantly affected mental health and wellbeing and renewed pressures on relationships.  Please know, we as a school are a source of support and help, we can sign post, we can identify agencies to help you.  Talk to us and ask for help.  Asking for help in any situation is a sign of proactiveness and strength, not weakness. 

I am deeply saddened schools have to close again in this way, but equally I want you all to be safe and well.  

Take care

Mrs Naomi Philp