Dear parents and carers,
Like you all, I am aware that we are living in very troubling and uncertain times. I sincerely hope and pray that all your families are safe and well.
I am extremely grateful to the staff in our school. Not only has the school been open as a hub every day, including some back holidays, but teachers have also been providing information and resources for all our pupils. I am sure you are aware, through the media that we are still in a situation of some considerable confusion regarding the potential phased reopening of schools. Even as I am writing this, it appears that the situation is changing daily if not hourly.
As Chair of Governors I have kept in regular contact with the school and we, as a Governing Body have been holding regular meetings via Zoom.
There are many factors for staff and governors to consider regarding the current situation which is primarily focused upon ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone in school. In addition to the many difficulties all schools face, St Oswald’s is one of the largest primary school in the country with a split site and a very challenging layout.
Being very honest with parents, one thing that can be confirmed, is that however our phased re-opening is managed moving forward, school will be a very different place during this unsettled period. It is highly unlikely that children will return to their class teacher or teaching assistant and may be separated from friends.
I cannot praise highly enough the hard work, courage and dedication of every person working in the School. All members of the senior leadership, teachers, administration staff, support staff, catering service and our cleaning team have all contributed to a fantastic effort that has kept those attending safe. I think that as this week we saw #thankateacherday it is fitting to thank, not only the teachers, but everybody involved in the smooth operation of our hub.
The staff are greatly missing each and every one of our precious school family. However, I am sure you will all agree that the safety and wellbeing of our children and staff has to remain our absolute priority.
I hope you all keep safe and well. I would ask that you keep our school community in your prayers as we continue to work together during these unprecedented times.
Mrs Walsh will keep you fully informed of developments as the situation develops.
Kind regards,
Tony Hegarty
Chair of Governors
Download: Mr Hegarty Letter [PDF]