At Melbourne Infant School, our priority is to remain open during normal school operating times whenever it is safe to do so; in order to allow children to continue to flourish in their learning journey. This decision will always be based on the safety of the school site and carefully consider the well-being of our children and staff.
However, there may be exceptional circumstances where it is necessary to close the school or open the school later in the morning to protect the safety and wellbeing of our community. These situations could include:
• Severe weather conditions (e.g. heavy snow or flooding)
• Cyber security incidents affecting essential systems
• Other safety concerns that make the site unsafe for pupils and staff
Any decision to close the school will be made carefully, based on risk assessments and, where relevant, guidance from relevant authorities.
How will parents/carers and stakeholders of the school be informed?
If a closure is required, we will communicate promptly via:
• The school website
• Text
• Class Dojo
In the event of potential closure due to severe weather:
-
The decision making process
There will be a daily assessment by the Head Teacher and Care taker – done in conjunction with the Junior School Head Teacher (as applicable). In the absence of the Head Teacher, this assessment will be done by staff who live locally.
Factors considered:
• Road safety to access Melbourne Infant School
• Condition of footpaths and car park
• Heating, electricity, and water availability
• Staff travel feasibility and ability to open school safely with limited staff
• Final decision to be made and communicated as close to 8am as possible.
2. Communication Strategy
• Class Dojo/ email/ text alert sent to all parents.
• Website homepage banner updated with closure or delayed opening notice.
3. Setting Work
Heavy snowfall is uncommon and can be an exciting experience for children. If Melbourne Infant School does close for the day, we will not set formal work. Instead, we will share a list of optional activities for families to enjoy at home. Families will still have access to Bug Club, Spelling Shed and also any homework activities not yet completed.
Suggested activities for children to complete at home are listed below, but there is no strict requirement to complete these if the closure is short term. We understand that an unexpected school closure will look different for every family. If school is closed longer term, then specific learning activities will be provided. Safe and well calls and messages will be sent during any longer closure.
4. Absences due to severe weather
Where severe weather makes conditions travelling to safe unsafe for parents/carers and children, families should leave a message on the school absence line.
Suggested Activities for enjoying a Snow Day!
• Make an animal out of snow
• Write a snowy message
• Build the tallest tower out of snow
• Go outside an blow bubbles – watch what happens when they land!
• Draw with Rob – search on YouTube
• Computing: BBC Bitesize has a selection of Computer Science-based ideas and activities, as well as learning based on Information Technology and Digital Literacy.
• https://freetimewiththekids.com/snow-actiities-for-kids/
• Build a den using items found in the house and have lunch in there.
• Write a postcard, imagining you are on holiday in the snow. Include a description of the setting and what you enjoyed doing there.
• Snuggle up with a hot chocolate and watch your favourite film