Snow & Bad Weather Policy
Severe weather overnight
On rare occasions, particularly in winter, the weather can be so severe that getting to and from school becomes hazardous. Really bad weather is disruptive and can cause anxiety and stress.
If the school has to be closed a decision will be made before 7.30am. In the event of a closure, a message will be placed on the school website and all families will be contacted wherever possible by text message via our EdulinkOne app. It is vital we are provided with the correct mobile number – please notify us of any changes.
A message will also be read out on BBC Radio Lancashire on 103.9, 95.5, 104.5FM or on their website.
PLEASE ASSUME THE SCHOOL IS OPEN IF THE SCHOOL WEBSITE AND RADIO DO NOT ANNOUNCE OTHERWISE.
If any pupils arrive at the school unaware of the closure a member of staff will be here to help. Pupils will be able to phone their parents to decide whether they should return home or wait to be collected.
When the weather is bad
Please do not ring the school unless it is an emergency.
The school office is open from 8.00am until 4.00pm
If the weather deteriorates during the day
The school will close only in extreme circumstances. Any decision to close the school will be made by the Headteacher and other Senior Managers. All families will be notified by text message if the school is to close (it is vital that we are kept up to date with any changes in the primary contact number).
The closure may be staggered. Please avoid ringing the school to enquire if we are closing or to collect your children early. We need to keep the phone lines open to make any necessary arrangements and avoid further disruption to getting the pupils home.
We will consult with the bus companies before any decision to close the school is made. We will tell pupils if there are any changes to normal bus routes. Pupils who are usually collected from school will be allowed to contact home so that they can decide the best way to get home. School will be kept open with staff on hand to supervise until the last pupil has left.
The Health and Safety of students and staff will be of paramount importance in the decision as to whether the school will close and how students can safely return home.
Whitworth Community High School,Hall Fold, Whitworth, Rossendale,
Lancashire, OL12 8TS
01706343218
office@whitworth.lancs.sch.uk