What happens if the school closes due to bad weather?

In principle we aim to keep the school open if at all possible regardless of weather.  The decision to close the school is taken by the Headteacher and the Facilities Manager based on local conditions with the health and safety of students and staff being the major consideration. Decisions are taken following an individual risk assessment relating to site conditions.  A decision to close the school during the school day will generally only be made if we feel that this is the best way to ensure that students can return home safely.

In the event of a school closure, parents/carers will be sent a text and information will also be posted on our website and the local authority website www.essex.gov.uk/education-schools/schools/dates/pages/emergency-school-closures.aspx, the school’s Facebook page and Twitter account.  Parents/carers are requested not to contact school to enquire about closure as this will block the telephone lines which may be needed by the school.

In the event of a decision to close the school mid-way through the day which might occur if we have information that the weather may worsen, we would need as many parents/carers as possible to collect their child personally, since public transport may be disrupted in the event of serious bad weather.

We will also use our school website, texts, Facebook and Twitter to advise parents/carers when the school will re-open.

Poor weather conditions overnight

A decision not to open the school will usually be made by 7.30am. The school will not open if it seems clear that it would be hazardous for a significant number of staff and pupils to get to school or if there would not be sufficient numbers of staff able to get into school to ensure adequate supervision of pupils.

The school and local authority websites will be the most reliable method of informing parents of the current situation.

PLEASE NOTE THAT IT ESSENTIAL FOR US TO HAVE CURRENT MOBILE PHONE DETAILS FOR THE SMS TEXT SYSTEM TO WORK EFFECTIVELY.

Unplanned closures due to severe weather are broadcast on the following local radio stations:

• Heart FM – 102.6 and 96.3 FM
• Heart FM Colchester – 96.1 FM
• BBC Essex – 103.5 and 95.3 FM 729,765 and 1530 AM and DAB
• Chelmsford Radio – 107.7 FM
• Southend Radio – 105.1 FM