Face Coverings Are Strongly Advised

Recently the news has been dominated by the national picture of rising Covid-19 cases and a testing system which has been unable to keep up with demand. I’m sure you would all have seen the Prime Minister’s statement on Tuesday 22nd September where he announced a series of new restrictions which have now come into force to try to address this.

With the increase in Covid-19 cases nationally, the difficulty in getting tests and the rise in students needing to self-isolate while waiting for test results, it is vital that we follow the guidance set out by the Prime Minister and that we all continue to adhere to social distancing guidelines and maintain good hygiene when outside of our homes.

In school, students have responded extremely well to the measures we have put in place and the safety of our students remains of paramount importance. At the time of writing whilst we are still in the fortunate position of having no positive cases confirmed for any member of staff or student, now is not the time for us to become complacent.

Whilst there has been no change to the guidance for schools in relation to Covid-19 safety measures, we are acutely aware of how tight some of our indoor corridor spaces are. As such, from Monday 5^th October our guidance to both staff and students is that face coverings are strongly advised when entering and exiting the academy buildings, moving around the academy buildings in between lessons, during practical technology and food lessons and moving to and from breaks and lunchtimes.

As has always been the case, students must continue to wear face coverings when travelling to and from school on public transport and if using local shops and facilities before and after school. We have had a number of reports from local businesses and transport providers where some students have not had face coverings and I ask that you support us in promoting safety within our community by ensuring your child comes to school with an appropriate face covering.

In addition, as part of our strategy to avoid transmission of Covid-19 in school, we are keeping windows open to allow for proper ventilation within the school facilities. As we are now heading towards the cooler months, you may want to consider purchasing a school jumper. School jumpers are optional, can be worn under the blazer and are available to purchase in store or online at EMSD – East Midlands Sports Direct.

We will continue to communicate any further updates in our policies to you in a prompt manner. Please continue to report any Covid-19 related absence by phoning the school. In the event of a positive Covid-19 test result, it is important you contact us straight away, so we can act as quickly as possible.

I would like to thank you all for the support you have shown the school throughout this difficult time. Please continue to stay safe and support each other and our community as best we can.

Mr Jobling
Head of School