Severe Snow/Ice Plan

Severe snow/ice plan for parents and families

Every winter brings the possiblity of snow and ice. Extreme bad weather can cause widespread and prolonged disruption. Schools are often affected and it can be difficult to maintain an education service.

As a fundamental priniciple every effort must be made to keep schools open, even if only limited numbers of pupils can attend. However schools may close due to ‘unavoidable’ circumstances. Those circumstances being that it is no longer safe for staff or pupils to be onsite.

We recognise that it is important our school remains open so parents are able to work and pupils can continue to learn. Pembury School will make every effort to prepare for severe snow/ice this winter by ensuring we have sufficient salt and equipment to clear access points. However, if you live local to the school and can help clear snow and have equipment then we would welcome your support.

How will we let you know if the school is closed?

If we do experience sever snow/ice resulting in hazardous condidtions, Miss Mayhew may have to take the decision to close the school. Once this decision has been made we will notify parents via the Kent Closures website. To determine whether Pembury School is open or closed please visit http://www.kentclosures.co.uk. Search for the school in the search box. The Kent Closures website can also be used to find out if services in Kent are open or closed, such as nurseries, childrens centres and libraries. We recommend parents sign up for SMS/Email alerts on the Kent Closures website. This service will send an SMS or email alert to let parents know if we are closed. Parents can also listen to KMFM, BBC Radio Kent or Heart FM to hear if the school has been closed.

What can you do to help?

Please visit www.kent.gov.uk/winter for more information about gritting routes and travel issues around Kent so you can plan your journey.
Please approach the school from the car park entrance (if directed this way) and prepare to be directed by a member of staff to see where your child/ren will be going to.
Please can you provide a packed lunch from home in case school meals cannot be provided.
Don’t forget suitable warm clothing – gloves, hats, scarves, wellies etc. or even a change of clothing.
If you are a working parent or you feel you may have a problem with a sudden earlier pick up, please could you put a back-up plan in place with another family member or parent and inform the school. This will allow staff to leave earlieir for their safety if weather dictates.

Many thanks for your support in helping us to remain open during periods of severe snow/ice.