Dear Parents and Carers,
Re: return to school week beginning Monday 8th March 2021
I am writing to let you know some of the detail around our return to full opening on Monday 8th March 2021. All students will be expected in school from 9am on Monday 8th unless other arrangements have been made. The school week will then be running as usual with school finishing at 2.30pm each day. Online learning will stop for all except for any students who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable, have to self-isolate or have separate outreach arrangements.
Risk Assessment
School remains relatively safe with enhanced distancing, cleaning and other measures in place. We are also increasing the amount of mask wearing required in school for staff and students. Please let your child’s tutor or mentor know if your child is exempt from wearing a mask. This should only be if they are ‘unable to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical impairment or disability, illness or mental health difficulties.’
If a student develops symptoms when at school, they will be sent home to self- isolate and seek a Covid-19 test. If a student tests positive, they will need to self isolate for 10 days (as will their household and anyone who has come into ‘close contact’ with them).
Testing
Testing is also continuing for all secondary students where possible. This will help us stay safe. In the fortnight beginning 8th March, students will be tested 3 times in school. After that they will be given home testing kits and expected to test at home twice a week. Further instructions will follow. For students in years 7-11, we still need some permission slips sending in. I have attached them to this email/letter. Please return the forms by emailing them to info@newhaven.greenwich.sch.uk or send a paper copy into school. If you have any concerns re testing them please discuss it with the school.
Exams
Exam grades will be set by the school by the deadline of June 18th 2021. We will have to collect a range of evidence to support giving students the best grades possible. This means that all students in exam classes should be in as much as possible so we can build up the evidence over time.
I am really looking forward to getting the buzz back in Newhaven and also keen that we get the safety aspects right so that we can stay open. Please contact the school if you have any questions about any of the above.
Yours faithfully,
Jon Kelly
Head Teacher
Newhaven
