Dear Parents and Carers,

Following last night's announcement from the government and the unprecedented actions imposed I'd like to reiterate the importance that care will only be provided by school when there is absolutely no alternative.

The current guidance from government is: If it is at all possible for children to be at home, then they should be .

Our aim like everyone’s is to reduce the spread of the virus. That is only possible by keeping as many children at home as possible. The more children in schools in closer proximity, the greater the risk of spreading the virus.

Our Parkfield staff are doing an amazing job supporting our most vulnerable pupils and those of parents working in critical services. However, we are also trying to reduce numbers in schools, because we have less resources than normal and over time this will reduce further as school staff are not immune to the virus. If school becomes unsafe, due to school being overwhelmed, in a context of reducing staff numbers, the school will have to close.

To help reduce the risk of spreading this infection we are asking those parents that have a child with an EHCP to read the updated guidance below that was provided this Sunday 22nd March. It does state that 'many children and young people with EHC plans can safely remain at home as long as they can safely have their needs met at home '. If you do believe your child can stay at home please contact school to discuss the support we could provide from a distance.

The full guidance can be found here: Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance on vulnerable children and young people

In addition, we ask that parents are not offended when asked about alternatives, such as why a parent who is working from home can’t care for your child. The advice is that if one parent is at home - they can care for their child. It is because we want to continue to deliver this offer safely, for as long as is possible, to those in greatest need.

Thank you in advance for your support and good luck for the next few weeks as families across the country stay at home. I will be sending information in a seperate letter regarding the home learning that so many of our pupils successfully carried out yesterday.

Stay safe Parkfielders.

Mr Kemp and Mrs Whalen

(Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher)