Dear BHS Families,

As we continue to ensure that our BHS learning community is well-prepared for any situation, I am writing to share our updated protocols for distance learning during school closures due to inclement weather.

The primary goal is to provide a high-quality, consistent experience across all ESF schools while remaining mindful of the unique needs of our younger learners.

To provide structure, we will follow the timetable structure directly below, which we refer to as our "Inclement weather timetable." This schedule will include break, lunch, and end-of-day times to keep a sense of routine.

9:00am Schedule shared on platforms (including Zoom link) and app message sent to 

parents

9:45am - 10.15am -  Session 1 (Class Teacher Morning Intro)

10.15am - 10.45am - BREAK

10.45am - 11.15am - Session 2

11.15am -11.45am Independent Follow on & BREAK

11.45am -12.15pm - Session 3

12.15pm  - 1.15pm Independent Follow on & LUNCH

1.15pm - 1.45pm - Session 4

1.45pm - 2.15pm - Independent Follow on & BREAK

2.15pm - 2.45pm - Story, Singing, Exercise

To allow staff the necessary time to prepare for the transition to online delivery on the day, we will have a slightly later start, meaning our first sessions at BHS will begin at 9.45 am. Throughout the day, students will participate in at least four 30-minute live sessions, involving a combination of class teachers and specialist teachers.

During each scheduled lesson, your child’s teacher will remain online and accessible for the entire duration. EAs will where possible be in attendance also. We aim to keep classes running individually, only combining groups in exceptional circumstances such as teacher absence.

It is an expectation that all students attend their online sessions and complete the work set by their teachers during these periods. However, we also recognise that home learning comes with its own set of challenges, and we understand that access to learning may be interrupted at times due to limited internet connectivity or the availability of devices.

Regarding our youngest students in Year 1 and Year 2. Provision for these year groups may be adapted to be more flexible, particularly during the first four to six weeks of the academic year. During this time, routines are still being established and IT skills are often still being rehearsed, so our approach will be tailored to ensure it is manageable for both children and families.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership as we work together to ensure learning remains continuous and engaging for every child at BHS.

Kind regards,

Dr. Jamie Schmitz

Principal - Beacon Hill School