If you’re a parent or carer, you’ll know that schools across Wrexham will be opening for the new term from Tuesday, September 1.
For most schools it’ll be a phased return over two weeks, with different year groups returning on different days, and your school will have been in touch to confirm arrangements.
No matter how mild your symptoms are, you should get a test for Coronavirus
We all know this has been a difficult year because of Coronavirus, and it’s natural than many parents, carers and children will be feel a little anxious about the new term.
As a council, we want to reassure you that the health of our communities comes first, and that plans are in place to ensure the return to school is as smooth and safe as possible.
We can all play a part
Councillor Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, says “There’s been a huge amount of planning behind the scenes, with the council, schools and transport providers working together to make sure all government guidance is followed.
“Arrangements will vary slightly from school to school, depending on circumstances. But if we all play our part – and follow all the guidance issued by schools and the council – the return to school should be a rewarding and enjoyable experience for all children.
“As part of this, we’re asking parents to remind their children about some of the simple do’s and don’ts around hygiene and safety – including the need to wash hands regularly, and catch any coughs or sneezes.
“All Wrexham secondary schools will be requiring mainstream pupils to wear face coverings when in communal areas such as corridors. This decision is fully supported. Headteachers have worked hard to put in place measures to protect everyone in their care and this is the latest example of quickly taking on board recommendations by Welsh Government. We ask parents to also fully support their children’s schools by ensuring that their children are aware of the need to wear face coverings in order to protect not only themselves but those around them, their families and the wider communities in which they live in order to keep Wrexham safe.”
Things parents and carers can do to help
- Follow any advice issued by your school
- Be patient – we’ve never been in a situation like this before, and we might need to adapt a little as we go along
- Remind your child to cover their mouth when they sneeze – both in school or and when travelling to school (for example on the bus). Catch it, bin it, kill it
- Remind your child to clean their hands regularly – including before and after they use school or public transport, and wherever they’re asked to by school staff.
- If you drop off and collect your children, please don’t congregate at the school gates. Keep at least two metres away from other parents (outside your extended household), follow instructions from your school, and don’t hang around longer than needed
- Don’t send your child to school if they – or anyone in their extended household has symptoms
- Don’t send your child to school if they – or anyone in their extended household – has been advised to take a Covid-19 test (for example, by contact tracers)
- Please ensure your child has a face covering for use in communal areas when in school
- Check out school transport arrangements here
- Check out the latest update on school meals here
Keeping our schools safe
Cllr Wynn added, “As a council, we’re unlocking services and facilities slowly and carefully and in line with the latest guidance and scientific evidence provided by the Welsh Government.
“This includes our schools, and the safety of our children, staff and communities is our priority.
“But we’re asking you as parents and carers to help us… by making sure your children understand some of these basic guidelines, and by following any advice provided by your school.
“We hope the return to school is a good experience for everyone, and that children in particular enjoy reconnecting with their friends and teachers whilst learning in a supportive classroom setting.
“Let’s work together to make the new term a success, and keep Wrexham – and our schools – safe.”
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