Headteacher’s Update – April 17th 2020

Yesterday afternoon we received the news that the lockdown across the country will continue in its present format for at least the next three weeks. Although this news was disappointing it was expected and we fully support the measures that the Government has put in place to keep us safe and to protect the NHS.  

The school will remain open to children of key workers and those with EHCPs from 8:30am to 3pm. The school will remain closed to all other students 

Today is the last day of the Easter Holiday. Learning from home will commence again at 8:00am on Monday morning: 

• Students will be set work in 3 subjects per day.  

• Students will receive 3 emails (one for each subject) per day detailing the work that has been set on that day. The emails will be sent between 8:00 and 9:00am.  
• Students will also be expected to spend 30 minutes reading each day. 

We continue to work hard to make sure that we are putting together good quality teaching resources that students can access successfully at home. It is important that we keep everyone on track and your support in encouraging your child/children to complete the work set is invaluable. And please can you spur them on with their reading! 

Communication remains key. The website offers access to the latest news from the school and important information, advice and guidance eg: ‘The Children’s guide to the coronavirus’ sent out by the Children’s Commissioner at the start of the week. Heads of Year have been sending regular updates to their year groups and our Safeguarding and SEN team have been touching base with individual students and families. Our weekday quiz and morning exercise classes continue to offer a link between school and home. It’s great to see from the messages on Facebook how many children, parents and carers are getting involved.  

In an attempt to open up another line of communications I am offering a ‘Virtual Drop-in Session’ on Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9:00-9:30am. I will be available online (using the Zoom app) to discuss any concerns you may have during the school closure Please email EHolmes@patchamhigh.org.uk to book an appointment. You will be sent an email containing an invitation link prior to the meeting. 

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns. We can be reached via email, and phone calls to the school between 8:30am and 3pm. 

Take care! 

John McKee