Dear Parents/Carers,

As you are probably aware, the Government’s guidance on the coronavirus has changed from the ‘contain’ phase to one of delaying the spread of the virus. We are getting in touch to let you know what we are doing in light of this, and what we expect from all of you, to help make sure our school community keeps safe and calm. 

We would like to reassure you that at Hornchurch High School we are taking all of the necessary steps to protect our community and are continuing to follow official guidance from the Government, and Havering Local Authority. 

What’s the current situation? 

• The school remains open – this is the current official guidance we have been given. 
• All school functions continue to run as normal, including Breakfast Club and Period 6. 
• Pupils should attend unless they feel unwell – if your child has any of the following symptoms they should remain at home for 7 days: 

• a new, continuous cough and/or a temperature  

• If your child is unwell, report this as you would normally by contacting Mrs. Bryan in the Attendance Office (x208232)

• Exams will run as planned.

• We will keep you up to date with any changes to the current situation.

What we’re doing to protect and support pupils and staff 

Students know they should report to the Student Services office if they feel unwell.

The school is cleaned every day.

Hand sanitation is available throughout the school.

Students will be kept updated by Form Tutors each day.

What we need you to do 

If you have recently changed your contact details, please inform the school office as soon as possible via email admin@hornchurchhigh.com or phone 01708 691441 x 208200.

Talk to your children about the coronavirus. It is a scary time and we should make sure children feel supported. BBC Newsround has regular updates for younger children and YoungMinds has practical steps older children can take to help with anxiety.

Come and collect your child straight away, if we ask you to (we will contact you if they become ill with either a temperature or a new, continuous cough). 

Let us know if you do not have access to the internet, as we may provide on line resources in the event of closure in the future. 

What happens if the school has to close?

We will only close if we are either officially advised to do so or we don’t have enough staff to run the school.  In either case, we will: 

• Send a message via Parent Mail and place a message on the school website,
• Keep all families updated as things change over time,
• Send work home with students in paper format and send electronic resources on a regular basis.
  
   
  
  Please keep in mind that we are only sending out this information to help the school community prepare.  There are currently no plans to close.
  
   
  
  If you have any questions 
  
  Please consult the: 

• School office, if you have any questions about our response to this issue. 
• NHS, if you want to know more about the symptoms of coronavirus. If you think you or your child may have the symptoms, use NHS 111 online if at all possible before calling 111. 
• Department for Education’s coronavirus helpline: 0800 046 8687, if you have any questions about the Government’s response to coronavirus in relation to schools. 
• Government’s travel advice if you want to know whether any upcoming trip or holiday you’re taking abroad should go ahead. 
  
   
  
  It is a tricky time and we know you are worried about the impact this might have on our community. It is important we keep each other safe and talk about these events to help with any anxiety. 
  
   
  
  Thank you for your continued support. 
  
   
  
  Val Masson
  
  Head Teacher