Dear parents,
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts about a return to school via the survey that was sent last week. We had a high number of responses to the survey, and this feedback, along with feedback from the staff team, has enabled us to think more carefully and strategically about what a return to the school buildings might look like at Dwight. Follow this link for more information about the survey results.
The response from both parents and staff indicates that there is a very broad range of views about reopening the school. As an IB school we encourage voice, choice and agency, and for this reason we have decided that regardless of whether the school buildings are open or closed, we will maintain our successful remote learning programme until the end of this school year for all students, regardless of whether or not there is an in-school provision for their year group.
At this point in time the government is stating that schools should welcome back children in Kindergarten, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 from the week beginning 1st June. As well as this, the advice is also to provide students with examinations in the following year (for Dwight this is D1) some face to face time with their teachers. This is all under that proviso that the following 5 tests are met:
- We must be confident that we are able to provide sufficient critical care and specialist treatment right across the UK.
- See a sustained and consistent fall in the daily death rates from COVID-19.
- The rate of infection is decreasing to manageable levels across the board.
- Be confident that the range of operational challenges, including testing capacity and PPE, are in hand.
- Be confident that any adjustments to the current measures will not risk a second peak of infections.
At Dwight we have decided to move forward with great caution. In the Lower School we are currently preparing for a return to school for Year 6 on Thursday 4th June, and Kindergarten, Reception and Year 1 on 5th June. This will enable us to reflect on the experience of other schools as they return from 1st of June, and adjust our plans if needed. It will also allow our teachers to have a much deserved half-term break. In the Upper School we have no plans to return before 15th June at the earliest. Our M5 and D1 students have online assessments during the week beginning 8th June, which they will complete remotely. We will assess the situation closer to the date with regard to face to face provision after 15th June. Please note that there is a staff training day on 1st June when there will be no online lessons for students.
For more information about plans for a phased return to the Lower School, please follow this link to a detailed letter from Mr Parkin.
For more information about Upper School plans, please follow this link to a letter from Mr Beddows.
Our first priority remains the health and safety of our community. Whilst we are making preparations for a potential phased return to school, we are very mindful that the situation is constantly changing and the 5 tests set out for the reopening of schools may not be met. Therefore we are planning to return, but understand that these plans may change at short notice. We remain committed to keeping you up to date with our plans and we will send out further information when necessary, and another letter during half term to update you on the preparations being made at Dwight.
Thank you for your continued support of the school and for the enormous efforts you are all making to support your children whilst they are learning from home. Your efforts, along with the ongoing dedication and professionalism of our teachers is making it possible for the students at Dwight to continue to learn and grow into responsible lifelong learners, who will make a positive difference in the world.
Kind regards
Alison Cobbin