Gaynes School

In making a decision not to open, the Headteacher will liaise with the site manager prior to 6 am and will take into account factors such as the level of on-site risk for both students and adults. Consideration will also be given to the condition of the roads in the immediate area and the likelihood of sufficient numbers of staff being able to get into school. Health and safety requirements for students and staff must be adhered to. If it is safe to do so, the school will open.

In the event of the school closing due to extreme snowy and/or icy conditions, these procedures must be followed:

• The website will be updated as soon as the decision has been made. A clear message will be displayed stating the day and time and whether the school is open or closed. Examples:

FRIDAY 7 DECEMBER 2012 – due to the adverse weather the decision has been made to close the school until further notice

FRIDAY 7 DECEMBER 2012 – although it is snowing, the school will remain open until further notice

• A Keep Kids Safe message will be sent to all subscribed parents/carers as soon as the decision is made

• The message on the school telephone system will be changed immediately and will detail the status of the school. The following information will be included too:

Specifically when the school is open/closed and the date and time (i.e. AM or PM) of the message

Details of the school website and a request to check the school website for the latest position on school status

Details of the Havering website

Details of local radio stations

• The status of the school will be updated to Havering so that the Havering website can be updated

• The following local radio stations will also be updated:

BBC ESSEX FM
TIME FM