Dear Parents and Carers,

As will know, we have had several cases of Covid-19 amongst staff in our school. We are working to limit any spread by the usual methods including thorough cleaning and adequate ventilation (where possible to do so).

I have also asked staff to socially distance from each other wherever possible. Clearly this cannot always happen as staff will sometimes need to work very closely together to support pupils.

Due to the number of staff being off isolating, we have had to close 2 classes temporarily. We will only ever do this if it is absolutely necessary and all other options have been exhausted. However, where staffing levels are not adequate to ensure safety, we will on occasions have to take this option.

We are currently looking at all options available to us to ensure we reduce any risk of spread to keep everyone safe. This may temporarily include some or all of the options below:

• Ask staff to wear masks in corridors and common areas
• Restrict visitors to school (with the exception of essential professionals including the therapy team)
• Re-introduce bubbles

I will, of course, let you know as soon as any decision is made on any of the above. The key is that I want to keep safe, whilst also ensuring that we can remain open to all pupils.

Many thanks,

Jon Hewitt

Headteacher

The Castle School