During the week commencing 4th November, 25 school staff have tested positive for COVID and 125 staff are now self-isolating due to close contact. It is important that staff are able to support one another through this difficult time. Working in shared areas during PPA, and taking rest breaks together, is an important part of their support network. The potential for the spread of coronavirus, however, is higher in these areas and staff should aim to keep to the 2m social distance wherever possible. Further information is available on the Bulletin Board at the above link.
Please ensure that any partial or full closures due to confirmed COVID cases are also reported on the closure system, identifying the number of confirmed cases, year group/bubble affected and if possible, the dates on which a return to school is expected. The closure system automatically informs local media and this will help ensure that a consistent message is communicated. Further information and an example message is available on the Bulletin Board at the above link.
There have been references in the media to a U-turn on extracurricular sport with the implication that this can go ahead during the lockdown period. The official guidance remains unchanged. The guidance states that school organised sports and physical activity can continue under previous systems of controls. Schools can continue to work with external coaches, clubs and organisations for curricular activities. Sport can also be delivered as part of child or respite care.
A reminder that schools are advised to continue to track their exceptional costs associated with coronavirus COVID-19. We would like to ask schools and academies to inform us of these costs incurred during September and October. This information will be used to understand the impact the pandemic is having on school finances so that we can inform the DfE regarding the need for continued financial support. Please see the Bulletin Board at the above link for the template and additional information.
