As we approach the end of our first week of home learning I hope parents are now beginning to ‘find their feet’ with this task once again.   If we can be of any help, please don’t hesitate to ask for advice as we are here to help in any way we can.  During the lockdown in March – June we had some children we ‘lost’, that is they did not engage in learning and as a result they were behind their groups when they returned and many found it hard to catch up to where they had the ability to be.  I don’t want this to happen again, so it is really important that ALL children register for work each day, engage in their learning and submit or return work as requested by their teachers.  Please do your best to get your child to join in with the Google meets the teachers are organising.

If any child is not engaging we will contact parents to offer support and explain in more detail the significant effects lack of engagement can have on their child’s education, self-esteem and long term mental health.  We really want everyone to come through this lockdown period with as positive an outlook as possible.

Pupils in P1 – P4/5 are due to return packs tomorrow (Friday) and pick up next week’s pack. This can be done anytime between 9.00 and 3.00 at the school office window.  I would request that if anyone in your household has COVID confirmed or COVID symptoms of any kind that you do NOT return the pack, but you can get someone to pick up the new pack if you like.  However, if children are feeling unwell they should take time away from their studies and get back to it when they feel better.  If you just let us know we will warn the teacher not to expect them at Google meets for a day or two.

Also, for those few families who are using the school for provision, I felt I should share the ‘Adverse Weather’ information, just in case we need to close due to bad weather.  If this happens, I will put a message on dojo as I know you all check it regularly and I will also put a message on the messaging service.  You can call 0800 564 2272 and use the school pin 04 28 20 when prompted to get up to date information. The radio stations will publicise this as well, but don’t wait for them, check dojo or the number above first.

When we reopen for everyone I will put out the Adverse Weather Information leaflet as I usually do.

Regards

L Wark