Dear Parents/Carers                                                                                            

 Extreme Weather

 Thank you for your support and understanding over the last two weeks of extreme weather. The continuation of snow and freezing conditions has made travelling extremely hazardous for most. The decision to stay open or to close the school is never taken lightly and has to be a balancing act between lots of different local factors - the safety of our pupils, staff and parents/carers is always the first consideration.

 Throughout the period of bad weather, we have worked hard to keep you informed of decisions to give as much notice as possible. We recognise that many parents/carers have difficult journeys and many have working commitments. Initial feedback suggests that our emergency arrangements have worked well for most parents/carers (the ‘emergency chain’, announcements on local radio, school and Worcestershire website updates and designated school ‘emergency number’ 01905 888328). Please let us know if you have any suggestions as to how we can improve communications.

 Finally, I would like praise the brilliant effort of our committed teachers and support staff in keeping our school open every day this week, particularly as many staff live in outlying towns and villages. It really was a great team effort.

It is now ‘business as usual’ and we look forward to a more settled period in school.

 Building Work – New Library, Classroom, Medical Room, Meeting Room and Disabled Toilet

 Work has started in the old Library and medical room and is progressing well. School life has not been unnecessarily disturbed and we are eagerly awaiting the completion of this project, which will greatly enhance our facilities.

 Parents’ Evenings

 You should have received details on the copy of this Newsletter your child has been given. Please let the Office know if this is not the case, as it contains important information.

 5JB

 Unfortunately, Miss Barnard is still not well enough to return to school and we all wish her well in her absence.  Her teaching and class responsibilities are being covered by Mrs. Collings and any reply slips should be forwarded to her.  We look forward to Miss Barnard’s return and will keep you posted on any developments.

 Emergency: Earthquake in Haiti

 You will be aware of the major emergency that is unfolding for the people of Haiti following the disastrous earthquake which hit just south of the capital, Port-au-Prince. This is an incredibly poor country, which already suffers the effects of extreme poverty. Funds are urgently needed to provide immediate emergency care to families affected.

 We are collecting in school for this charity and are asking pupils for ‘loose change’ and ‘pocket money’ donations for this worthwhile cause. We shall be pleased to receive any donations, large and small and will ensure that they reach the appropriate emergency agencies as a matter of urgency.

 David Coll

Headteacher