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A message from Matt Dunkley CBE:

4 January 2018 weekly update

4 January 2018

This week, Matt provides an update on schools’ requirements during winter weather and the new procedure for requesting password resets or other changes to the Kent Schools Closure system.

Dear Colleagues

Happy New Year.

Welcome back to the new school term after what I hope was a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas break. I hope you celebrated the start of 2018 in good spirits with family and friends.

Winter Weather

Although much of the winter weather has not yet reached us in Kent, the long term forecast is unsettled. The possibility of snow, cold snaps, high winds or localised flooding means that we should ensure that we are as prepared as possible. This could include obtaining road salt, identifying flood risks, lagging pipes and checking building integrity.

The government has stressed the importance of schools remaining open, wherever possible, as closures have a knock on effect on parents and carers ability to go to work. Many of these will be key workers in other areas of the public sector, e.g. Health Services or the emergency services, thus undermining crucial service delivery. The overriding principle is, therefore, for schools to remain open to the maximum degree possible, as is consistent with health and safety requirements, even if it is not possible to run a full timetable.

The decision to close or restrict attendance should be taken by the Headteacher of the school or in their absence by the most senior member of the teaching staff available. After the decision has been made to close or partially close the school you will want to communicate that closure to parents and staff as soon as possible. Please also consider any on-site stakeholders that may also be affected if the school is closed, e.g. Adult Education classes, club etc.

The Kent Schools Closure system should be used to notify parents, carers and other stakeholders. It requires the schools to register for the service, but is otherwise free to use. Currently, Early Years, higher education, independent schools and other civic amenities can also use the system to notify full or partial closures. Once registered, you can change the status of your school, with a short message. This then broadcasts email or text alerts to anyone who has requested them. It is important to inform parents and carers of the system and request that they register for these alerts. Please also remember to change your school status once you have re-opened.

Some of you may not have used the system before; or have forgotten or changed your login details. For these and any query about registration, we have created a dedicated mailbox - SchoolClosures@kent.gov.uk - for schools and settings to use to request a password reset or other change.

Matt Dunkley CBE
Corporate Director
Children, Young People and Education