Monday 4th January 2021

Dear Parents and carers,

Somerset Support Services for Education have sent Headteachers the following message this evening, "It has recently appeared in the media that the PM will make an announcement at 8pm tonight about greater restrictions. It is being reported that the announcement will be followed with a vote in Parliament on Wednesday. Secondary schools are already making preparations for schools to open to key worker and vulnerable pupils only following the policy changes before Christmas. Some primary schools have made a judgement to do so in the past few days on the basis of staffing restrictions and the ability to operate safely.

In order for schools to take account of this rapidly changing situation, we are recommending that all schools in Somerset open only for children of critical workers and vulnerable pupils, and continue to do so as long as it takes for the way forward to be confirmed for all schools."

St. Benedict's and St. John's have agreed that, following this advice and listening to the views of our school community, we will be closed tomorrow to prepare for Lockdown learning, which will commence on Wednesday 6th January.
We will contact you if your child is on our vulnerable list or if you are a critical worker that requires a place for your child. Please note that we will run an Early Years and Key Stage 1 bubble.

Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience this may cause you, but the actions of the government have left us in an incredibly challenging situation and we are keen to act now to keep our pupils and staff safe and to send out a clear message to you. Remote learning will start on Wednesday 6th January. There will be staff in school on Tuesday 5th January and you will be able to contact us on the usual number.

We are very grateful for your supportive messages and hope that you understand the reason for this course of action.

Best wishes and stay safe,

Wendy Turner