Urgent face coverings update from Mr Brailsford

Please be aware that this message has two different dates and reading the message in full is vital.

As of Thursday 20th January 2022, face coverings will no longer be required in classrooms and teaching spaces at National. This was a temporary measure and the government no longer recommend they are worn in classrooms or teaching spaces. The DFE have contacted us today with this announcement. If students or staff still wish to wear face coverings then they may and we are comfortable with allowing an individual to decide but it is not a requirement. Due to the efforts of our community, student infection numbers are extremely low and staffing has been at its strongest since September for the last 2 weeks. Please note – students and staff are still required to wear a face covering in communal areas and corridors unless exempt. This is a requirement of our risk assessment which must be followed.

As of Thursday 27th January 2022, face coverings in communal areas and corridors will no longer be a requirement at National. The government have said from that date it will no longer be a recommendation. From this date we will still allow individuals to choose if they wish to wear a face covering or not in communal areas and corridors. Please note – until Thursday January 27th, face coverings are still expected to be worn in all communal areas and corridors unless exempt. If they are not, individuals are breaking our risk assessment which everyone on site, unless exempt, is required to follow.

The academy reviews the COVID situation and risk assessment on a regular basis and may reintroduce specific measures at a later date if required.

Thank you for your support in advance.

Mr M Brailsford

Headteacher