January 2021 Update Letter
Our ref: TSE/lti
18th December 2020
Dear Parent/Carer
You may have heard or read the various Government announcements regarding tiers of restrictions and mass testing in Secondary schools from January. If so, you will be aware that North Somerset has been moved from Tier 3 to Tier 2 with effect from one minute past midnight on Saturday morning (19thDecember). There are no implications in this respect for schools as all schools remain open to all children in all tiers, as has been the case since the start of September.
Secondary schools will be a focus for mass rapid testing for staff and pupils from the start of next term, with primary schools following later in the term. The first day of term, Monday 4 January has already been planned as an in-service training day for staff, which means that the school will not be open for students. In line with Government guidance, we will then operate a staggered return as follows:
Tuesday 5 January – Friday 8 January:
Students in exam year groups (Years 11 and 13), vulnerable children and children of critical workers will all attend school;
Students in year groups 7, 8, 9 and 10 will complete their schoolwork at home. We will issue their online timetable and associated resources using the SIMS Engagement App.
Monday 11 January – Friday 12 February
All students in all year groups attend school for face-to-face lessons.
You will recognise that schools were only made aware of this only yesterday, which means we will update you on Monday 4thJanuary with any additional information.
With best wishes
Mr T Searle
Principal
