Monday 14th December 2020
At the start of the final week of the autumn term, I would like to start by thanking parents, children and staff for all of their support over a very long and challenging term. We are days away from the start of the Christmas break and it is important that we remain alert to the continued risks of COVID-19. If your child is unwell in any way and you are not sure whether to send your children to school the answer is clear and simple, do not send them in, book a test and following a negative test result they could be back in school within 24 hours. Sending your child into school if they are unwell still carries the risk of a positive test, taken later, bursting a bubble which would then have to self-isolate for 10 days.
We have one remaining priority this week and that is to get everyone safely to the end of term. The class-based parties and Christmas lunch went well on Friday and everyone managed to enjoy themselves in their class bubbles.
On Monday we will be presenting parents with our Infant nativity on line. The staff and children have worked wonders to film their individual class-based contributions and with special mention to Mr Starkey and Miss Sherwood who have edited the various contributions, the results are wonderful! The staff who have seen a preview all agree it is a fabulous production.
On Tuesday our virtual worship will be led by Andy and on Wednesday the whole school will come together on zoom to share our Christmas Hopes in what is always a wonderfully reflective and calm service. As a treat to the classes Wednesday afternoon will see the children entertained by an online storyteller from the team at Settle Storytellers.
If all of this does not leave you feeling festive enough Thursday morning will see the school celebrating our virtual carol service which will be shared with you all. The theme of our worship is light and you are all welcome to come and join the celebration. Thanks goes to Mrs Wake who was given the task of editing and producing the service.
Please remember that we are open on Friday but finish slightly earlier than normal. The staggered pick up times are as follows:
2.05pm: Bishopdale, Dentdale and Coverdale.
2.10pm: Airedale, Swaledale and Wharfedale.
2.15pm Ribblesdale, Nidderdale and Wensleydale.
Monday 4th of January is a staff training day and school reopens for children on Tuesday 5th January. I wish everyone a happy and safe Christmas however you are planning to celebrate it and look forward to a much happier 2021!
Andrew Symonds