Dear Parents/Carers,

Speaking yesterday in the House of Commons, Gavin Williamson (Secretary of State for Education) confirmed that the Government is not able to open primaries, to all children, for a month before the summer.  Mr Williamson stated: “We continue to follow the best scientific advice and believe that this cautious, phased return is the most sensible course of action to take.”

I can completely empathise with the frustration that this announcement will have caused for some of you.  This is shared by children and parents, in those year groups the DfE have not prioritised, throughout the country.

As you will have read in my recent updates, we have reached our maximum capacity.  Supporting these four groups/bubbles of key worker and vulnerable children; as well as pupils from Reception and Years 1 and 6, has required my full complement of available staff.  The aforementioned leaves no capacity for any additional children to be in school – I am truly sorry this is the case.  However, the safety of pupils and staff is my absolute priority, and ensuring we adhere to the Government’s guidelines, severely restricts the number of children we can currently have in school.   

Nobody knows what our school will look like in September, however, I remain hopeful all the children will be back in school (even if not on a full-time basis).  If your child does not return to school before the end of term, we realise that they will have been away for a significant amount of time by September, and will require support when returning to school.  We are planning our curriculum carefully for their return so we can support their wellbeing as well as focussing on academic progress.  The main priority will be coming together as a school community once again and ensuring the children feel safe and positive about their return to school.

If you are feeling concerned or overwhelmed and would like some support we can offer several things. City of York have launched a confidential Coronavirus Support Line for all York parents and carers to discuss their concerns about their child’s wellbeing or learning (01904 553055).  You can also contact me via email (head@elvingtonprimary.org.uk) or ring school to speak to a member of the staff team.  We are all here for you, please do not think you are on your own…

Yours sincerely,

Mr. Andrew Buttery