Director's Message - 7th December 2020
Dear Colleagues,
The government has made clear its commitment that education and childcare settings should continue to operate as normal during the pandemic. This remains the default position for all areas in all local restriction tiers. Any restrictions on education would only be as a last resort and would only be initiated by central government. The DfE and RSC have asked LAs to remind all settings that in the event of any closure, vulnerable children, young people and children of critical workers should still have access to full-time provision. Where circumstances relate to local restrictions, this is set out in the COVID-19 Contingency framework for education and childcare settings. The list of critical workers and vulnerable children and young people who can still access full-time education provision can be accessed in this guidance.
Get help with remote education
New guidance has been published (3rd December) for teachers and school leaders on educating pupils and students during the pandemic. This includes guidance on the requirements, safeguarding with teaching remotely, supporting SEND pupils, recovery and catch up, digital resources (devices / internet / platforms), good practice, and overall support.
Schools' Covid fund claim
A second claim form for schools and academies has been published to claim eligible exceptional costs relating to Covid for the period March to July 2020. This second claims window will run to 22nd December and will be the final opportunity to submit a claim for these costs. Full details on the claims process can be found through this link.
Action cards on how to identify, manage and report an outbreak
These Joint Biosecurity Centre action cards [294KB] , which reflect the latest advice on how to identify, manage and report a Covid outbreak have been updated. These are for Early years settings, Primary, Secondary, Special Schools, Alternative Provision, Further and Higher education.
Primary SATs and Moderation
Please share the latest Assessment and Moderation briefing paper with your assessment leads. This includes an update on phonics testing information for this term and the new assessment and reporting arrangements for 2021.
Extrameasures to support students ahead of next summer's exams
The DfE has confirmed in a press release (3rd December) that students sitting exams and other assessments next year will benefit from a package of exceptional measures to make them as fair as possible and manage the disruption caused by Covid-19.
Guidance for managing playgrounds and outdoor gyms
The Government updated guidance for owners and operators of playgrounds and outdoor gyms to enable their use while minimising the transmission risk of Covid, in line with the local restriction tier system.
Brexit update
Changes to checks for EU sanctions on EEA teachers from 1 January 2021 guidance for schools to carry out pre-employment checks.
School Leaders' Briefing (SLB)
This fortnight's SLB articles are:
- Covid Workforce Fund
- Covid and Administering First Aid
- Better Health - Every Mind Matters top tips
- FREE Mental Health Presentation from Kooth
- Reminder: Please ensure Social Care are aware of non-attendance of vulnerable children
- The Advanced Designated Teacher Programme
- Operation Make Peace - Development Sessions for Students
- Evolve Advice - December News Update
Full Covid-19 DfE guidance
Please continue to access our full update on Covid guidance, including how schools should continue to ensure protective measures via our FAQs on LEAP and email the Education Team via education@hillingdon.gov.uk for any support.
Regards,
Dan
