School seeing double the number of pupils compared to last lockdown
A school has revealed it is facing increased pressure due to the number of pupils attending compared to last year’s lockdown.
While the government closed schools earlier this month, they do remain open for the children of key workers, but many have seen increased levels of attendance when compared with the first lockdown last year.
One of those is St Martin’s all-through school where attendance is double what it was during last year’s lockdown.
In an update for parents headteacher Sue Lovecy, has asked parents to consider whether or not their child can work at home.
In the letter she also outlines how the pupils at home are receiving exactly the same teaching as those physically attending the school.
It comes as the government has said that those who can work from home and look after their children should do so.
In her letter Mrs Lovecy said: “We have a record number of students in school and I would like to remind parents that in school our students are accessing the same learning as the students at home.
"This is great as it allows part time attendance which links exactly to what they are doing at home.
"We are however at breaking point in school and I am asking parents to reflect on whether or not their child can work at home.
“The group sizes are now as big as a normal class.
Vital
"On some days we are simply full, which is why we will now have to prioritise families where both parents are keyworkers to access the provision.
“In order to be fair to all families, if you are accessing school provision and don’t require a full time space, please just book for the days that you need.
"Our provision in school should be used by parents who have no other childcare provision as the safest place for your child to be is at home.”
Over the weekend the government explained it expected parents who could look after their children to do so.
A Department for Education spokesman said: “Schools are open for vulnerable children and the children of critical workers. We expect schools to work with families to ensure all critical worker children are given access to a place if this is required.
"If critical workers can work from home and look after their children at the same time then they should do so, but otherwise this provision is in place to enable them to provide vital services.”
