A Letter has been sent to Parents 

I am writing to provide you with an update about the recently revised government guidance, and how this may impact the way that we operate going forward.

The pandemic continues to present challenges in all sectors of life. Education is no different and towards the end of last term we experienced unprecendented levels of staff absence due to the current wave of infection. The national data indicates that this wave has not yet peaked and that we are likely to see simlilar, and possibly higher, levels of staff absence. In other circumstances we would turn to supply agencies for supplementary staff. Sadly, this sector too has been impacted; there are simply far too few supply teachers to match the huge level of demand.

We remain committed to keeping classes open this term and will do all that we can to achieve this. The government has recognised that this may not always be possible and I must make you aware that there may be times when we will reluctantly have to revert to remote learning. Please be assured that this will only occur when all other options have been explored and will be a short-term measure until conditions allow for a return to faceto-face teaching.

It is likely that you have heard that the government has recommended that face-coverings are worn in classes. This only impacts secondary academies at this stage and is something that we are keen to comply with. Individual academies will be in touch to provide further information about this. This is being reviewed on 26 January alongside all other Plan B measures.

As ever, please take very good care of yourselves and your loved ones. I very much look forward to a more normal future in 2022. Yours faithfully,

Chris Moodie Chief Executive Officer Diocese of Southwell & Nottingham Multi Academy Trust (SNMAT)Dear