Letter from Head of School

16 July 2020

Dear Parents and Carers,

We are writing to update you regarding information for all children returning to school in September. Following government guidance there is the expectation that all children will return to school and learn within bubbles. At Haxby Road our bubbles will be:

• EYFS (Tiny Steps, Nursery and Reception)
• Years 1 and 2
• Years 3 and 4
• Years 5 and 6

A comprehensive risk assessment has been devised to minimise the risk of spreading the virus. We acknowledge that this will alter our usual routines and the way we interact with children and families, however, we would like to reassure you that we will continue to work closely with the wider school community.

School Curriculum:

As you are aware the government has stated that all children will return to school in September and access a broad and balanced curriculum. However, we acknowledge that our reception children have missed a vital part of the Early Years education and therefore as result of this we will be setting up areas of provision to allow the children to develop their learning through play as this is a fundamental aspect of their development.

Drop off and Pick Up:

There will be drop off points at the gates and children will go straight to their designated class area on the playground. Staff members will be stationed at each drop off point to greet and direct children to the correct place. Parents will be expected to drop off promptly and continue to follow the one-way system to enter and exit the school site. We have to minimise contact as far as possible and so we are asking that one parent/carer drops off and picks up. We would like to reassure you that we will do absolutely everything to ensure your child feels safe and secure when coming into school on a morning and we look forward to the day when we can open our doors fully again. In September year 3 and 4 parents will collect their child from the rear playground and wait for them in the Mugga at the designated signs. The class teacher will then call the child’s name to the parent. This is to help ensure a free flow through the gates and ensure we adhere to maintaining social distance at all times.

When dropping off and collecting children, it is really important that you arrive as close to the specified time as possible to reduce contact. It is also crucial that children only bring in essential items such as Reading Records and books and any essential medical and personal items which have been agreed by the class teacher.

May we also remind you that dogs are not permitted on the school site.

School Lunches

We are in the process of making our final arrangements for lunch times but we are hoping to be able to continue to offer hot meals to all pupils who require them. The children will eat their meals together in their own bubble. The school menu is currently being reviewed in line with the new government guidance and the menu will be shared with you at the beginning of term.

We would also like to draw your attention to the change in price of a school meal. From September the cost of a school meal will be £2.25 per day. Payments can be made in the usual way through ParentPay.

Parents in school

Unfortunately, under the current guidance, we are unable to welcome parents into school for INSPIRE mornings and assemblies. However, we recognise that these events are extremely important for the wellbeing of our children and for continuing to build our school community. Therefore, our Celebration assembly will still take place on a Friday afternoon at 1:30pm and will be posted on the school website. Stars of the week will be announced on our social media feeds.

We will continue to showcase the children’s learning virtually through our Inspire mornings. Each bubble will record one Inspire morning per term to upload onto the school website. Please be reassured that children who do not have media consent will not be included in these videos.

Breakfast Club and After School Club

This provision will continue for those children who essentially require wrap around care. Bookings will need to be made at least 7 days in advance to ensure a place is available.

Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities

Enrichment will recommence in September for years 5 and 6. This will run Mon-Thurs 3.15-4.15. Unfortunately at this time we cannot offer sports after school clubs for years 1-4 but we hope to continue these soon.

School uniform

Children will be expected to wear school uniform including appropriate footwear. You can order this via the link on the school website.

Finally, we would like to say a huge thank you to all of the children and families in supporting one another through this difficult time.

Have a lovely summer.

MISS WOODWARD and MRS MALSTER-HINETT