The coronavirus outbreak and subsequent media coverage of the issues related to it have understandably caused some concern and worry. In particular, the potential effect on schools, and the consequential impact on families has been highlighted in different quarters.

We are therefore issuing this letter and supporting information to update parents/carers with the latest advice and guidance from the government. Schools are updated on a daily basis by the Department for Education (DfE) who are liaising with other organisations, such as Public Health England (PHE). In response, schools are monitoring the advice and ensuring that this guidance is followed. The advice from the DfE is:

• Schools should remain open and keep abreast of latest local, national and international news.
• Schools should promote good hygiene, as normal, amongst all people within the school community, ensuring hands are washed regularly with soap and water.
• Antibacterial gel is used where there is no access to warm water and soap.
• Good hygiene regarding touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands is promoted, as is washing hands every time the toilet is used, before eating and regularly at other times of the day.
• ‘Catch it, bin it, kill it’ is promoted when coughing and sneezing, so that tissues are used once and then disposed off.
• Cleaning regimes within schools use approved products and routines to ensure that areas are cleaned appropriately and thoroughly.
• If your child develops any symptoms of coughing, temperature of over 38 degrees and shortness of breath please keep them at home until they are well again.
   

We will ensure that the situation is managed to the best of our ability. School holds the health and safety of the pupils and staff with the utmost importance and parent/carers can be assured that all decisions are taken with the careful consideration of the latest and best advice available.

A useful resource that outlines the DfE’s guidance to schools can be found at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-to-educational-settings-about-covid-19/guidance-to-educationalsettings-about-covid-19

We will continue to adhere to published guidance and advice and continuously monitor the situation, providing accurate updates as relevant.

Thank you for your continued support.

Yours sincerely

Mrs Joan Beale

 Head of School

on behalf of Middlefield Primary Academy (part of TDLPT)