Coronavirus Letter - 18 March 2020

18 March 2020

Dear Parent

Due to the ongoing Public Health COVID-19 crisis we are reviewing our provision on a daily basis. Current guidance from the Department of Education indicates that schools should remain open at present, although it is likely this will change in the coming days. We are acutely aware of the deep concern held by parents, pupils and staff as we continue to manage this situation. In order to ensure the safety of our pupils we would strongly recommend that, in line with PHA guidance, any pupil with underlying health conditions including asthma should be kept at home.

While it is our desire to remain open and provide the highest possible learning and teaching experiences for our pupils we must be mindful of the health and wellbeing of all involved. Consequently, the Board of Governors and Leadership Teams at both Omagh County Primary School and Gibson Primary School have today considered all options. In order to plan for what is expected to be a lengthy closure both schools will be closed on Friday 20 March and Monday 23 March which will enable staff to prepare work, guidance and activities which will be placed on our website and emailed to parents. We remain open tomorrow for those pupils who are able to attend.

We acknowledge that this is an ever changing situation and that this decision requires the understanding and flexibility of all our parents. Both schools continue to take decisions which we believe are in the best interests of our pupils, parents, staff and wider school community and we appreciate your ongoing understanding in this matter.

Should you wish to discuss this or any other matter please contact me at school.

Yours sincerely

K Sterritt (Mr)

Principal