Remote Learning

School-wide remote learning during an extended closure

In the event of a school closure, we are committed to providing continuity of education to our students. We will do this through a process of school-wide remote learning. Our remote learning provision is designed to maintain high expectations, align closely with our curriculum, and support students to continue making progress.

Remote learning will be provided to enable students to follow their usual timetable from the first full day of closure, recognising that initial communications (e.g. setting up online access) may begin immediately on notification. Remote learning is not a substitute for face-to-face education, but where it is necessary, it reflects the same curriculum intent and ambition.

School-wide remote learning would apply in a situation in which the school is closed for an extended period of time; this may also include shorter-term school closures, e.g. as a result of inclement weather. Remote learning would take the format of predominantly ‘live’ online lessons wherever possible, and on a timetable modified to balance academic support and wellbeing management.

We do not operate interactive remote learning for individual instances of student absence. However, our website and online class Microsoft Teams always provide curriculum content within every subject to support a student to learn outside of the classroom.

We recognise that access to technology may vary. Where students do not have access to a suitable device or internet connection, families are encouraged to contact the school so that appropriate support can be explored.

The platform the school will use to deliver continuity of education is Microsoft Teams, which can be accessed via the relevant app or desktop application: Microsoft Teams.

SEND and Vulnerable Students  

We recognise that some students, such as those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), may not be able to access remote education without support from adults at home. We acknowledge the difficulties this may place on families, and we will work with parents and carers to support those students in the following ways:

• Teaching assistants attend the same lessons as these students and then work either one-to-one in a break-out room, or in small groups to address difficulties
• Teaching assistants and staff in the Learning Support Faculty may also offer remote support
• The Learning Support Team will communicate with Year Managers, students and parents to support individual need.

Depending upon the nature of the closure, some students may be able to attend school and be supported by staff in Learning Support.

Who to contact 

If you have any questions or concerns about remote learning, you should contact the following individuals:

• Contact our SENCo, Mrs Jenny IIlingworth, if the issue is in regard to a student with a specific EHCP or SEND need.
• Email our IT Technicians if the issue is around IT: [email protected]
• If you have a concern regarding safeguarding, talk to our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Mr Taylor.

Safeguarding and Wellbeing 

Safeguarding remains a priority during remote learning, so the following principles apply:

• All online learning takes place using school-approved platforms
• Staff follow the school’s safeguarding, behaviour and online safety policies at all times
• Students are reminded of appropriate online conduct and expectations
• Any safeguarding concerns should be reported to our Designated Safeguarding Lead, Mr Taylor.