Home » Letters Home » Start of Term Arrangements – Term 3 – Update

Start of Term Arrangements – Term 3 – Update

Thursday 17 December 2020

Dear Parents/Carers

When I wrote my final letter of the year to parents/carers on Monday 14th December 2020, I included an outline of start of term arrangements for Term 3 but did state ‘If guidance changes during the Christmas break I will of course ensure these are communicated to you.’

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 South Gloucestershire has remained in Tier 3. 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 students from the start of next term, with primary schools following later in the term. The first day of term, Monday 4th January 2021 has already been planned as an in-service training day for staff, which means that the Academy will not be open for students. In line with Government guidance, we will then operate a staggered return as follows:

  • Tuesday 5th January 2021 – Friday 8th January 2021: Students in exam year groups (Years 11 and 13), vulnerable children and children of critical workers will all attend the Academy;
  • Students in Year Groups 7, 8, 9 and 10 will complete their schoolwork at home by accessing their Show My Homework account
  • Monday 11th January 2021 – Friday 12th February 2021 all students in all Year Groups attend the Academy for face-to-face lessons.

You will recognise that schools have been made aware of this only today, which means we will update you on Monday 4th January 2021 with any additional information.

Can I finally remind you that we have a dedicated and monitored email address [email protected] for any concerns, questions and positive COVID test results to be sent to.

Once again can I take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas and best wishes for the new year.

Mr S T Kneller | Academy Principal