Bad Weather Guidance

“Schools should, wherever possible, stay open in severe weather. They play a key role in their communities and by staying open help both their pupils and parents.”

Department for Education

Every winter brings the possibility of snow and ice. Extreme bad weather can cause widespread and prolonged disruption. Schools are often affected and it can be difficult to maintain an education service.

As a fundamental principle, every effort must be made to keep schools open even if only limited numbers of pupils can attend. However, schools may close due to ‘unavoidable’ circumstances. Those circumstances being that it is no longer safe for staff or pupils to be onsite.

We recognise that it is important that our school remains open so parents are able to work and pupils can continue to learn. Chilham St Mary’s CE Primary School will make every effort to prepare for severe snow/ice this winter by gritting paths and making the site safe for pupils, parents and staff.

How Will the School Let Parents Know if the School is Closed

If we do experience severe snow/ice resulting in hazardous conditions, the Headteacher may have to take the decision to close the school. Once this decision has been made we will notify parents via ParentMail, the School Website, and the Kent Closures website.

To determine whether Chilham St Mary’s Primary School is open or closed please visit www.kentclosures.co.uk. Search for the school in the search box - Chilham. The Kent Closures website can also be used to find out if other services in Kent are open or closed, such as nurseries, children’s centres and libraries. Parents can also listen to KMFM or BBC Radio Kent to hear if the school has closed.

What Can Parents Do To Help?

Don’t forget suitable warm clothing for your children – gloves, hats, scarves, wellies etc. or even a change of clothing.

If you are a working parent or feel you may have a problem with a sudden earlier pick up, please could you put a back-up plan in place with another family member or parent and inform the school. This will allow staff to leave earlier for their safety if weather dictates.