Headteacher’s update 29/01/21
Well done on making it to the end of January (almost) and completing 4 weeks of ‘remote learning’ (or a different version of ‘class’ at Sandford St Martin’s for those in school). Thankfully, we are now starting to hear a little bit more about the return of more children back to school. The Government has stated that this will not happen until at least the 8th March (could be longer, could be only some year groups initially?), and we do not know exactly what that means for us here at Sandford St Martin’s, it does at least let us know that the end of remote learning is potentially in sight.
We have also been informed this week that all schools will close at February half term to all children. This will provide us all with a much-needed break and a chance to switch off. Schools will still be required to carry out the test and trace service for any children or staff in attendance who receive a positive Covid-19 test.
Our email address for this is: covidsupport@sandfordprimary.dorset.sch.uk
It is vital that we are informed of positive tests to inform close contacts/bubbles as part of NHS track and trace and to reduce risk of community transmission.
I know for a lot of children and parents/carers that this period of lockdown is not easy. As next week is ‘Children’s Mental Health Week’ we hope you all find some light relief in the ‘Express Yourself’ theme. Teachers will be providing some ‘lighter and looser’ sessions to support you all at home (and children/staff in school). Please encourage your child to spend some time on talent/skill/passion that interests them, and to share it with their teacher.
As part of this, we continue to be very mindful of the time that our children are spending in front of their screens at the moment, and the importance of them having some time away from them. Please ensure you insist that your child is getting up/moving about, stretching their arms and legs, having a comfort break, drinking water and having healthy snacks. If it all gets too much, my advice is: switch off, refresh, reset, have a break, come back to it later. Too much screen time strains the eyes, seizes the body and makes grumpy little (and big) people! Paper work packs (matching Class Dojo) can be provided by us to reduce printing and paper costs at home, but also to support a reduction is reliance on ‘screen time’. You can request a paper work pack for the week from teachers on Dojo or the school office (by phone or email). They are available from 11am on Monday for the week from the school office.
Many Thanks and keep staying safe.
Mr Beveridge
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