Dear Parents and Carers

Please see an extract from the updated Government guidance in relation to the National Lockdown from 5^th November 2020.

Schools continue to remain open for all children and young people as they have since the start of the autumn term for the duration of the national restrictions.

Being at school is vital for children’s education and for their wellbeing. Time spent out of school is detrimental for children’s cognitive and academic development, particularly for disadvantaged children. This impact can affect both current levels of education, and children’s future ability to learn. It continues to be our aim that all pupils, in all year groups, remain in school full-time.

The risk to children themselves of becoming severely ill from coronavirus (COVID-19) is very low and there are negative health impacts of being out of school. For the vast majority of children, the benefits of being back in the classroom far outweigh the low risk from coronavirus (COVID-19) and schools can take action to reduce risks still further.

In schools where pupils in year 7 and above are educated, face coverings should be worn by adults and pupils when moving around the premises, outside of classrooms, such as in corridors and communal areas where social distancing cannot easily be maintained.

Based on this updated guidance from Thursday 5^th November 2020, all students will be required to wear a face-covering whilst moving around corridors within the College and whilst in internal Zone areas (unless they are eating or drinking). It is vital that this requirement is respected by parents and students. The wearing of a face covering during these times has now been incorporated into our COVID-19 Code of Conduct. Refusal to wear a face-covering when requested to do so will be subject to the College sanction system.

Bins have been provided in every classroom for the safe disposal of used face coverings, however, the use of washable face coverings is strongly recommended in order to reduce costs. These should be washed regularly with warm water and soap. Face coverings should be plain and suitable for an educational setting. We understand that face coverings will not be appropriate for all our students, particularly those students with underlying medical conditions, if this is the case please contact lorraine.tuff@crookhorn.hants.sch.uk and a pass will be issued.

Any concerns or questions please contact admin@crookhorn.hants.sch.uk

Mrs SI Bennett
Headteacher