10th March 2023

Dear Parents and Carers, Following previous correspondence about the industrial action in schools, I can confirm that the school have received confirmation of planned industrial action on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16 th March 2023.

Ysgol Bryn Castell have considered the school’s individual context and completed a thorough risk assessment, which has included discussion with a number of colleagues both within and beyond the school. Unfortunately, it has been determined that Ysgol Bryn Castell will be closed to all pupils on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th March 2023.

Our understanding is that pupils who are in receipt of Free School Meals will receive a voucher and we will confirm information as soon as it becomes available to the school.

Each pupil will also be offered activities which will provide some tasks which they can complete during the school closure days if they wish. These activities are not compulsory and are not designed to replace teaching and learning activities but may help support your child/ren during the period of school closure.

Our website also includes lots of hyperlinks to activities which can be accessed at: https://www.ysgolbryncastell.co.uk/general-links-1/

This decision to close to pupils has not been taken lightly. In coming to a decision of this nature, the school has worked closely with Human Resources and Education officers from the local authority, taken advice from other professional associations and consulted with other schools.

I would like to make clear that the planned industrial action continues to be as a result of a national dispute as opposed to any issues relating to our school. Our primary consideration is the health and safety implications of potentially having a significant number of our staff population absent from work.

The school will continue to review the situation and update you of any changes. Ysgol Bryn Castell’s priority continues to be the health and wellbeing of our pupils and staff, and we will continue to act in the best interests of your children as we move forward, together.

Thank you for your support, encouragement, and feedback.

Helen Ridout (Headteacher