Winter considerations.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Snow

Snow can have an impact upon local transport routes and the ability to safely access our school.

How will I know what to do if it is snowing in the morning?

• A text message will be sent stating the school is closed.
• Announcements will be made on BBC Radio Wiltshire. As a rule, schools that have announced closure will also be listed on their website.
• Heart Radio will also usually announce schools that are closed.
• An announcement will be placed on this school website and if you have our app, a notification will also be sent.

Unless we notify you that we are going to be closed or will be closing earlier than normal, you should assume that we are open. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the school may need to modify its opening times (to reflect changing conditions) or to reflect the difficulty staff may have in reaching the school. For example, we may not be able to offer hot meals or run a full timetable. We will always do everything we can to let you know as quickly as possible.

Gritting Policy

Please take note of our policy for gritting the pedestrian areas of our school during icy conditions.

Areas to be gritted

Priority 1 : A pathway from the main entrance pedestrian gate to main doors

Priority 2 : A pathway linking the external classroom doors

Priority 3 : A pathway from the gate opposite the cutting to Cottles Barton to the main building

Please do not assume that all three priorities have been achieved when you arrive at school. You must take reasonable precautions.

Areas NOT gritted

• The playgrounds
• The school car park
• School Lane – please also be aware that this road is not on the route covered by Wiltshire Council’s gritters. (The B3105 is gritted). You can check which roads are gritted by following this link:

http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/grittingroutesmap.htm

Person responsible for laying grit

• Site Manager

We will grit when;

• Ice or below freezing weather conditions are forecast
• Snow is forecast

Clearing snow

• The headteacher will decide whether or not to clear snow after assessing the conditions

Remember: You have a responsibility for your own health and safety, you must take reasonable precautions when accessing and moving around the site during hazardous weather conditions.