Key information for parents
The safety and well-being of our pupils, families and staff is always our top priority. During periods of severe or adverse weather, we take all reasonable steps to keep schools open wherever it is safe to do so, while ensuring that no one is put at risk.
In the event of bad weather
- We aim to avoid school closures wherever possible.
- If conditions are challenging, we will first consider a later opening, partial closure, or adjust the school timetable and pupil attendance times.
- A full closure will only be considered when safe access to the school or safe operation cannot be achieved.
Decision making
The decision to partially close or fully close a school is made by the School Leader, in consultation with the Directors, after carefully assessing:
- Safety of access to the school site (including snow and ice risks)
- Staff availability
- Whether adjustments can be made to keep the school open safely
- Whether reduced pupil numbers would allow the school to operate safely
How we will communicate with you
If a school is affected by bad weather:
- Parents and carers will be contacted directly by telephone as a priority
- The school website will be updated
- Ongoing communication will continue throughout the closure period
- Relevant local authorities will be informed
Remote learning during closures
If a closure lasts longer than a short period:
- Full-time remote learning will be put in place
- Teaching staff will provide high-quality online learning and support
- Learning will be closely monitored to ensure pupils remain engaged
- Welfare and well-being checks
During any prolonged closure, weekly welfare phone calls will be made for all pupils. Any pupils identified as vulnerable will also receive weekly doorstep visits, where appropriate. This ensures that pupils remain safe, supported and connected during periods when they are not attending school in person.
Staff responsibilities
- Staff will make every reasonable effort to reach the school safely
- If unable to attend or delayed, staff will inform the School Leader
- Staff will support remote learning where required
Feedback
We regularly review our policies to ensure they remain effective and appropriate. If you have any comments or questions, please contact: directors@ontrackeducation.com
Please click on the link below to view our full Bad Weather and School Closure policy: