Every winter brings the possibility of snow and ice. Extreme bad weather can cause widespread and prolonged disruption. Schools are often affected and it can be difficult to maintain an education service.
As a fundamental principle every effort must be made to keep schools open, even if only limited numbers of students can attend. However schools may close due to ‘unavoidable’ circumstances. Those circumstances being that it is no longer safe for staff or pupils to be onsite.
We recognise that it is important our school remains open so parents are able to work and pupils can continue to learn. The Leigh UTC will make every effort to prepare for severe snow/ice this winter by preparations e.g. gritting pathways and clearing access points.
How will we let you me know if The Leigh UTC is closed?
If we do experience severe snow/ice resulting in hazardous conditions, The Leigh UTC may have to take the decision to close. Once this decision has been made we will notify parents via the Kent Closures website, text message and our own website. To determine whether the college is open or closed please visit www.kentclosures.co.uk and search for the college in the search box. We also recommend parents sign up for alerts on the Kent Closures website. This service will send an SMS or email alert to let parents know if the college is closed. Parents can also check The Leigh UTC website at theleighutc.org.uk or listen to BBC Radio Kent or Heart FM to hear if the school has closed.
What can you do to help?
- Please visit www.kent.gov.uk/winter for more information about gritting routes and travel issues around Kent so you can plan your journey.
- Please can you provide a packed lunch from home in case school meals cannot be provided.
- Don’t forget suitable warm clothing – gloves, hats, scarves, wellies etc. or a change of clothing.
- If you are a working parent/carer or feel you may have a problem with a sudden earlier pick up, please could you put a backup plan in place with another family member or parent and inform the school. This will allow staff to leave earlier for their safety if weather dictates.
Many thanks for your support in helping The Leigh UTC remain open during periods of severe snow/ice.
Yours sincerely,
Kevin Watson
Principal
