We hope that you, your family and loved ones are safe and well during these difficult times. As you know, the government directed all schools to close on 20th March 2020 other than to provide emergency childcare. The government guidance states: ‘We have asked parents to keep their children at home wherever possible, and for schools to remain open only for those children of workers critical to the COVID-19 response who absolutely need to attend.’ There is also provision where a risk assessment deems it is better for a child with an Education Health and Care Plan or one with an assigned Social Worker to attend. The government’s message is very clear: children should stay at home if at all possible - #StayHomeSaveLives
We are currently able to offer emergency childcare for those eligible which is open 8.00-4.00 Monday to Friday.
Whilst we are committed to providing this care for vulnerable children and those of critical workers, there may be circumstances when we are unable to do so. Should that occur, we will work with the Local Authority to ensure that alternative provision is available. The Local Authority can be contacted on 01422 394101 or at school.effectiveness@calderdale.gov.uk.
Please note that safeguarding remains our key priority and it is important that you share any concerns or worries about children’s wellbeing with us. Please contact Dave Wood, Vice Principal and Designated Safeguarding Lead (d.wood@nhgs.co.uk or tel. 07497761764) with any concerns.
During this difficult time, Free School Meals provision for those children eligible for benefits-related Free School Meals have so far been arranged by the school. Please contact Emma Casson, Academy Finance Director (e.casson@nhgs.co.uk) if you need any help in accessing Free School Meals. Further information about support available can be found on the Calderdale website at https://www.calderdale.gov.uk/v2/coronavirus/advice-and-updates where there is also the facility to request support.
We are thinking of you all and are very much looking forward to the time when we can be fully open and return to normal service. Please stay at home, stay safe and keep watching our website for updates, advice and the ongoing support for children’s learning at home.