In the event of adverse weather conditions or other emergencies, it is important for you to know the procedures involved in closing the school. 

In the event of snow or other extreme weather event every effort is made to ensure that school continues as normal.   We will only close as an absolute last resort, taking into account the best interests of pupil, parent and staff safety.

A decision on school closure will usually not be made until there is either some certainty of the day/ next day’s forecast and an assessment of conditions on the school site and surrounding roads. 

When making a decision of this importance we take into consideration many factors including - Met Office weather warnings, road conditions, safety of the school site and travel arrangements.  Consideration is also made as to whether conditions are likely to deteriorate/improve as the day goes on.  Choosing to open and then having to close later in the day can potentially be far more disruptive for parents. 

Although schools all consider the same factors, some schools may open, some may not. It is all dependent on individual circumstances. 

Should it be necessary to close school then parents will be notified via Parentmail and a message displayed on the school website home page.  

A notification is also made to the local authority.  This information will then appear on the Emergency Closures page on the Essex County Council website. 

https://www.essex.gov.uk/emergency-school-closures

Should we need to close the school during a school day parents will be similarly notified.
 

 If you have any further questions regarding closures please do not hesitate to contact the school office.