Headteacher: Mr Ian Baker Monday 4th January 2021 School closure following the Prime Ministers announcement Dear Parent/Carers, Following the Prime Ministers announcement this evening about the new national lockdown I am regrettably writing to you to inform you the school will be closed to all pupils on Tuesday 5th January. Staff will be using this as an emergency closure in order to ensure we are then ready to reopen for vulnerable pupils and key workers children as soon as possible. This decision has not been taken lightly but unfortunately due to the timing of the announcement and as yet lack of new guidance on definitions of those who qualify for places and numbers that we are able to facilitate, it will take us some time to prepare for these new regulations. We have worked hard today to keep the school open as we were asked to do and I know you will understand the very real challenges that schools face in adapting at such short notice. If you believe you may qualify for a school place for your child and that you would want this place should we be able to offer it please email admin@gatcombepark.portsmouth.sch.uk. Please provide your name, your child/children’s name and Year group and the reason why you think you may qualify. Once we have been able to see new government guidance and assessed numbers of families requiring school places then the school will be in contact with you. There will be no remote learning available tomorrow due to the time this organisation will take and I will be in contact with all families to let you know how to access remote learning as soon as it is available. I am aware of the difficulties that this late government announcement will have on many families and we will do our very best to support you in these difficult times. Ian Baker Headteacher