First Federation Trust
School Closure- Friday 18th February
Dear Parents and Carers,
Further to communication earlier today, we have made the difficult decision to close the school tomorrow.
Devon County Council has issued a warning to schools to review the safety of their staff and students. During a weather warning of this severity the risks include:
- There is a good chance that flying debris could result in a danger to life
- Damage to buildings and homes is likely, with roofs blown off and power lines brought down
- Roads, bridges and railway lines are likely to close, with delays and cancellations to bus, train, ferry services and flights
- There is a good chance that power cuts, possibly prolonged, could occur, perhaps affecting other services, such as mobile phone coverage
- Large waves are likely and beach material is likely to be thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties, and flooding of some coastal properties seems likely
- It is likely there will be falling branches and some uprooted trees
According to the MET office the peak of the storm tomorrow morning will be between the hours of 0700 and 1000. It would be irresponsible for us to expect staff and students to travel to work and school during this time.
Following further guidance given by Devon County Council and in review with the school governing body there are some specific concerns linked to school:
• We are concerned about large tree branches in the school grounds on some of our taller trees.
• Parts of the school building have roof tiles that may cause concern in extreme conditions.
• Many of our children independently walk to school or get public transport which may pose a risk.
I apologise for any inconvenience caused by the school closure. Home learning will be posted through our school Seesaw platform, if you require assistance please contact your child’s class teacher through the class email.
Thanks as always for your support for our school team.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Lewis Webb
Head of School
head@westcliff.org.uk