Dear Parents and Carers,

Following previous correspondence about the intended industrial action in schools on Tuesday 14^th February 2023, I can confirm that Ysgol Bryn Castell have considered the school’s individual context and completed a thorough risk assessment.

Through discussion with a number of colleagues both within and beyond the school, it has been determined that unfortunately Ysgol Bryn Castell will be closed to all pupils on Tuesday 14^th February 2023.

Packed lunches will be sent home with transport providers for those pupils who are in school on the day before the industrial action (Monday 13/02/2023) and who are in receipt of Free School Meals. If you do not receive a packed lunch or have any queries then please do not hesitate to make contact directly with the school.

Each pupil will also be offered an activity sheet which provides some tasks which they can complete during the school closure day if they wish. These activities are not compulsory and are not designed to replace teaching and learning activities, but may help support your child/ren during the day of the industrial action. Our website also includes lots of hyperlinks to activities which can be accessed at:

https://www.ysgolbryncastell.co.uk/general-links-1/

This decision to close to pupils has not been taken lightly. In coming to a decision of this nature, the school has worked closely with Human Resources and Education officers from the local authority, taken advice from other professional associations and consulted with other schools.

I would like to make clear that the planned industrial action continues to be as a result of a national dispute as opposed to any issues relating to our school. Our primary consideration is the health and safety implications of potentially having a significant number of our staff population absent from work.

The school will review the situation and update you of our intentions as soon as possible in advance of the other proposed industrial action dates (Wednesday 15^th March and Thursday 16^th March 2023).

Ysgol Bryn Castell’s priority continues to be the health and wellbeing of our pupils and staff, and we will continue to act in the best interests of your children as we move forward, together.

Thank you for your support, encouragement, and feedback.

Helen Ridout (Headteacher)