Dear all,

We are looking forward to welcoming students next week.

As a reminder, term begins at 08:30 on Wednesday 2nd September for Year 7 and Year 12. Students will not need their PE kit, but should bring all other uniform and equipment. A free lunch will be provided for all students.

All other year groups will return to school on Thursday 3rd September at 08:30, and should bring all normal equipment. Students do not need to bring last year's exercise books. Students going into Year 8, 9 and 11 (X band) should also bring their PE kit.

I also wanted to remind you of our COVID-19 protocols. We have produced information packs for parents which can be found at the bottom of this letter. 

In particular, please can I draw your attention to two key rules:

1. Students must not come into school if they show COVID-19 symptoms. These are listed here by the NHS. Parents should arrange a test as soon as possible; students should not return until they have tested negative. 

2. Parents/carers should only come up to the school for appointments. If collecting/dropping off your child by car, please refrain from leaving your car. New Year 7 parents will still be able to drop children off at the gates on their first day as other year groups will not be present. 

3. If your child is travelling by public transport, they must wear a mask. 

Additionally, the government updated its guidance on wearing face masks at school on 25th August 2020. 

The latest guidance is that “while the government is not recommending face coverings are necessary, schools will have the discretion to require face coverings in communal areas if they believe that is right in their particular circumstances.” Gloucester currently has a relatively low rate of Covid-19 transmission, and we have taken a number of precautions to minimise any risk, as outlined in the information pack below. . Therefore, in line with the above government guidance, we will not be making the wearing of masks mandatory in the corridors.

Furthermore, the guidance states: “Face coverings can have a negative impact on learning and teaching and so their use in the classroom should be avoided.”  We therefore recommend that students do not wear masks in classrooms.

However, we also recognise that some students will feel more comfortable wearing a face mask in the corridors and/or in the classroom. We are happy for them to do so.

Please note that masks must be plain in appearance with no logos or motifs, and must be worn appropriately and sensibly. Any student intentionally misusing or incorrectly wearing a mask (i.e. the mask does not cover both their nose and mouth) will be required to take it off. Students wearing a mask should also bring a resealable plastic bag to place the mask in when they are not using it (e.g. when eating).

I am very much looking forward to seeing your children again next week, and I hope you have had an enjoyable summer.

Best wishes,

Mr Farmbrough

Headteacher