Dear Parent/Carer
Re: Snow & Extreme Weather Policy
On rare occasions, particularly in winter, the weather can be so severe that getting to and from Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy becomes hazardous and securing a safe site is not possible.
The academy’s intention is to always remain open as we do not wish to disrupt students’ learning; we also appreciate the difficulties school closure causes to working families. However, safety is our number one priority and we will always act in the best interests of students and staff. The decision to open or close the academy will take into account the weather conditions at the time of making the decision, local forecasts, potential impact on public transport and accessibility of surrounding pavements and roads.
In the event of overnight extreme weather conditions affecting the opening of the academy, The Principal and/or Deputy Principal and Premises staff will make a full risk assessment of the site and a notice will be posted as early as possible on the academy’s website. In addition, all families will be contacted wherever possible by text message and through MCAS about academy closures. It is vital that we have the correct mobile number and it is parents/carers responsibility to notify the academy of any change of contact details.
PLEASE ASSUME THE ACADEMY IS OPEN UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE ON THE ACADEMY WEBSITE.
If any students arrive at the academy unaware of the closure a member of staff will be here to help. Students will be able to contact their families to make arrangements to return home.
The academy will close only in extreme circumstances. Any decision to close the academy will be made by the Principal and/or Deputy Principal.
In the event that weather conditions deteriorate to such an extent during the academy day and a decision is made to close; parents/carers will be notified by text/email though MCAS, as well as notices published on the academy website. If the academy is closed, students must work from home where they can continue to access work set through their Google Classrooms using their Chromebook.
Yours faithfully,
Mr Stephenson
Deputy Principal
