As the government has removed the remaining domestic restrictions in England, it is still important to test for Coronavirus and keep everyone safe. If you require further Rapid LFT (Lateral Flow Test) tests they are available. Please click on the below for further information.
Due to a small increase in the number of positive tests with students and staff, parents and carers are reminded to test themselves and their children regularly at home. Should a student display the any of the symptoms below, even if mild, they should get a PCR test as soon as possible:
Further information is contained in the letter from Public Health and Westlands:
On the 22nd January 2022, the Public Health team advised the Academy that voluntary safety measures should continue in all schools in Stockton-On-Tees. Current infection rates for 10-14 year-olds are over three times higher than when the measures were first introduced in November. Consequently, students are reminded that face coverings are recommended in school and, as a school, we will limit visitors to those with a prior appointment. A further rise in infection rates may limit our extra-curricular activities, especially if staff absences increases.
Please use the following link to complete the testing consent form your child: Testing Consent Form
Dear Parents and Carers,
We have recently had confirmed positive tests for COVID-19 within the Academy and those members of our community are now self-isolating. Westlands Academy remains open and your child should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.
NHS Test and Trace may be in contact with children who have been identified as a close contact and provide further advice. You will be informed of what steps you need to take if this applies to you.
The government advice remains the same that students should test twice per week using the lateral flow tests. Should you require any further test kits you can contact the school and further advice will be provided.
Detailed below is the Government’s guidance offered to parents and carers in relation to what to do if your child develops symptoms of COVID 19
Get a PCR test as soon as possible if you have any of these 3 symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild:
If you are identified as a close contact with a positive case, you are advised to take a PCR test. Testing can be arranged by calling 119 or via the NHS website: nhs.uk/coronavirus
How to stop COVID-19 spreading
There are things you can do to help reduce the risk of you and anyone you live with getting ill with COVID-19:
Further information Further information is available at nhs.uk/coronavirus Please also contact the tutor team in the first instance, if you have any concerns or queries.
Yours sincerely,
David Penny
Executive Principal
A copy of the letter sent out can be downloaded here.
We have been advised that there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the school. We have carried out a full risk assessment and identified all those who have been in close contact with the affected case. All parent/carers and students affected have been informed and advised. Please read the following letter for further information.
We are actively encouraging all students to test at home on a regular basis. Details on how to conduct a home LFT test can be found here. If a student requires extra testing kits they can be obtained from reception.
Please click on the link for instructions on how to complete a COVID-19 Self-Test: COVID-19 Self Testing
Please click on the following link to view our latest risk assessment: Risk Assessment 05/03/21
The Government have produced further guidance on keeping children safe online. This document contains practical help and solutions via a range of resources. To view the document click this link: Online child safety
Please click on the following link to view our latest risk assessment: Risk Assessment 08/01/21
We have been advised that there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the school. We have carried out a full risk assessment and identified all those who have been in close contact with the affected case. All parent/carers and students affected have been informed and advised. Please read the following letter for further information.
Positive Case 7th January 2021
Horizons Specialist Academy Trust is closely monitoring the national and local situation and is following official guidance from Public Health England and the Government. We are also liaising closely with our colleagues in Local Authorities.
National Lockdown Stay at Home Guidance - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home
Discussions will continue with parents and carers with regard to attendance requirements for children of key workers and those identified as socially vulnerable, and more information will be uploaded when it is received.
For the latest official information please click on the following links:
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Click here to view contact details of your local Stockton Family Hub
Please click on the following link for further information regarding the Spring Term 2021 reopening for Westlands Academy: Urgent Update
Important information for parents and carers: COVID-19 Letter to parents/carers from the Principal
Guidance on face coverings – we now expect all students to bring in their own masks and these should be used when moving from and to lessons and at other times when guided by staff: click here
What Parents need to know: click here
Government guidance for full opening - special schools and other specialist settings: click here
Government guidance on transport to school and other places of education: Autumn Term 2020: click here
Government guidance - ‘Back to school safely’: click here
COVID-19 Testing and what the results mean: click here
Westlands Academy COVID-19 Risk Assessment: click here
Link to our Principal's letter sent to all our parents and carers on 7th July 2020: Changes for September
Link to our Principal's letter sent to all our parents and carers on 20th August 2020: Further information for September
Link to our Principal's letter sent to all our parents and carers on 4th September 2020: Update on return to school
Link to our CEO's updates on the Coronavirus sent to all our parents, carers, staff, governors and trustees on 18 March 2020
Link to our CEO's updates on the Coronavirus sent to all our parents and carers on 15 May 2020
Link to our CEO's updates on the Coronavirus sent to all our parents and carers on 9 July 2020