Since reopening at the beginning of September, the school has operated according to its previously published plans to deliver a full curriculum to all year groups whilst minimising the risk of contagion.
The measures that have been in place include: –
- The creation of year group ‘bubbles’
- Separate entrances and exits for all year groups
- ‘Blue’ and ‘Red’ zones of the school for specific year groups
- Staggered break and lunch times
- Compulsory wearing of face coverings in communal areas
- A one-way system on the ground floor of the school
- Consistent teaching groups and seating plans, especially in Years 7, 8 and 9
- Hand sanitiser stations on corridors and in classrooms
Despite the measures listed above being consistently applied by staff, we have been made aware of a number of positive Covid-19 cases involving members of our school community.
When a positive test case is reported, the school undergoes a thorough investigation to identify any students or staff who may be at risk of infection via close contact with the individual(s) concerned. Every effort is made to minimise the number of students subsequently required to self-isolate due to potential contact with the person who has tested positive. At all times, the school follows the guidance from the DfE and liaises closely with the governing body, the local authority and Public Health England before any final decisions are made. Any students who are required to self-isolate will be provided with learning resources to complete at home. We understand the difficulties that self-isolation imposes on our students and their families but our overarching priority at this time has to be the health, safety and wellbeing of our whole school community.
A summary of the cases to date can be found below. Please note that all families of students directly affected by these cases have been individually contacted by the school. If you have not received a text message or telephone call informing you that you child needs to self-isolate then they can continue to attend school as normal.
Year 7
A small number of children will have to self-isolate until Monday 28th September. Parents and carers have been informed.
Year 9
A very small number of children will have to self-isolate until Monday 28th September. Parents and carers have been informed.
Year 10
Following a number of cases in this year group, the entire cohort has had to self-isolate. As a result of information received very recently, the period of self-isolation has been extended and student can now return to school on Friday 25th September.
Year 11
A number of children (approximately 50) will have to self-isolate until Monday 28th September. Parents and carers have been informed.
