20th May 2020

Dear Parents,

A quick update to keep you informed on how the school is proceeding to extend the provision after half term.

I met with the Chair of Governors on Tuesday to agree a plan for a safe return.  Last night, I met with teachers to discuss the next steps in the phased plan.  I will send out a letter on Friday providing more detail as to dates and year groups.

We continue to be open during half term for keyworker and vulnerable groups apart from Bank Holiday Monday.  I felt it was important to continue this provision to enable you to keep working.

I realise that many of you now have to return to work, so I am extending the keyworker provision after half term.  We will continue to support you and trust your judgement as to whether your child needs to attend. Every child matters to us and we will endeavour to provide for every child’s needs – something which has always been part of our school ethos. If you require a place for your child, could you please e-mail bursar@sandylands.lancs.sch.uk.  Please email each week with details of your requirement for the following week.  You will also need to complete a medical form if you have not done so already.

The keyworker and vulnerable children must be kept separate to any other returning groups to avoid cross contamination, so information regarding numbers would be most helpful to enable me to maintain correct staff ratios.

We have ordered additional resources as stated in the  Health and Safety risk assessment requirements and teachers are clearing surfaces so we can ensure the highest hygiene standards.  We are currently waiting for deliveries of items such as signage and hand sanitiser.  Screens will be erected in relevant areas to prevent the spreading of coronavirus.

At Sandylands, we have always had an open door policy and this still remains. It may be via a phone call rather than a drop in, but please don’t let this deter you from speaking to us. Please call or contact one of the school team and we will try to answer any questions or address any concerns  you may have.

Take care and thank you for your continued support and patience.

Ms Hickson