Yesterday, the government issued new and updated guidance about the opening of schools next week. A new Contingency Framework has been published, setting out guidance for schools in specific geographical areas of the country where:
-there is extremely high prevalence of coronavirus (COVID-19)
-other measures have already been implemented
Watford, Hertsmere and Three Rivers are all listed as ‘contingency areas’ but not St Albans. This guidance does not therefore apply to Bowmansgreen (as a St Albans school) or other primary schools in London Colney or the wider district of St Albans.
Bowmansgreen will therefore be open to all pupils, on Tuesday 5th January 2021 (Monday 4th is an INSET day).
We will update families if the situation changes, following further local or national advice or restrictions.
We know that some families will be worried about a return to school next week given the local and national picture, especially if you have vulnerable family members who are shielding. We also appreciate that some families live in or have other children educated within the local ‘contingency areas’ which makes life even more complicated. The times that we live in continue to be problematic, unsettling and anxious for us all.
The updated information and guidance from the Department of Education (DfE) has been issued to local authorities, schools and the public at the same time. So far, a brief statement has been published from Hertfordshire County Council (see below) but we expect further information and guidance, to follow.
We will be reviewing our COVID-19 risk assessment in light of these updates and the changing local and national picture and will update families with any changes and amendments accordingly.
We will continue to provide remote learning, via our school website, on a weekly basis, for any pupil who is unable to attend school due to COVID-19, including self-isolation.
Mass testing for secondary aged pupils: the Government expects a programme of mass testing in secondary schools to be fully operational by January 18th, 2021. There are currently no plans for testing to take place in primary schools.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the Bowmansgreen school community.
Wishing you a healthy and happy New Year.
HCC statement on schools returning for the spring term
Hertfordshire COVID-19 Public Dashboard
Schools and childcare settings: return in January 2021
Contingency Framework (Currently not applicable to Bowmansgreen)
Guidance on Shielding and Protecting People who are clinically extremely vulnerable from COVID-19