Academy Actions due to COVID-19

COVID-19 Update 28th February 2022

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.

Rapid lateral flow coronavirus (COVID-19) tests - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

COVID-19 Update 7th February 2022

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:

• a high temperature
• a new, continuous cough
• a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

Further information is contained in the letter from Public Health and Westlands:

Warn and Inform: 7/02/2022

COVID-19 Update 24th January 2022

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.

COVID-19 Update 14th December 2021

Please use the following link to complete the testing consent form your child: Testing Consent Form 

COVID-19 Update 18th November 2021

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:

• a high temperature
• a new, continuous cough
• a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

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:

• wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
• use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• wash your hands as soon as you get home
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
• put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards

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.

COVID-19 Update 1st July 2021

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 1st July 2021

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.

COVID-19 Update 17th March 2021

Please click on the link for instructions on how to complete a COVID-19 Self-Test: COVID-19 Self Testing

COVID-19 Update 5th March 2021

Please click on the following link to view our latest risk assessment: Risk Assessment 05/03/21

COVID-19 Update 22nd February 2021

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

COVID-19 Update 12th January 2021

Please click on the following link to view our latest risk assessment: Risk Assessment 08/01/21

COVID-19 Update 7th January 2021

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

COVID-19 Update 4th 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.

E-safety Information

COVID-19 Update 30th December 2020

Please click on the following link for further information regarding the Spring Term 2021 reopening for Westlands Academy: Urgent Update

COVID-19 Update 5th October 2020

Important information for parents and carers: COVID-19 Letter to parents/carers from the Principal

Education

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

Directed Information

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