Schools should, wherever possible, stay open in severe weather. They play a key role in their communities and by staying open help both their pupils and parents.
— Department for Education

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 is made to keep our school open. It is a legal requirement to keep schools open for children to attend 190 days a year and therefore it will only close in extreme circumstances, usually connected to health and safety such as:

– hazardous site
– number of staff available to supervise children present
– lack of heating, water or toilet facilities.

How will we let you know if the school is closed?

If we do experience severe snow/ice resulting in hazardous conditions, the school may have to take the decision to close. Once this decision has been made we will notify parents via our email/text system and the Kent Closures website. To determine whether St Thomas’ is open or closed please check your email and visit www.kentclosures.co.uk. Parents are also advised to check local radio stations:

What can you do to help?

• Please ensure the school holds correct contact information for you.  During periods of disruption, please continue to check your email for latest updates as this will be the school’s preferred method of communication with parents.
• 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 ensure you child comes to school in suitable warm clothing – gloves, hats, scarves, wellies etc.
• If you are a working parent or feel you may have a problem with a sudden earlier pick up, please could you put a back-up 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 St Thomas’ remain open during periods of bad weather.