27th February 2023

Dear Parents and Carers,

Following previous correspondence about the intended and then postponed industrial action in schools on
14th February 2023, I can confirm that the school have received confirmation of planned industrial action on
Thursday 2nd 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
Thursday 2nd March 2023.

Packed lunches will be sent home with transport providers for those pupils who are in school on the day
before the industrial action (Wednesday 1st March) and who are in receipt of Free School Meals. If you do
not receive a packed lunch, or have any queries then please do not hesitate to make contact directly with
the school.

Each pupil will also be offered an activity sheet which provides some tasks which they can complete during
the school closure day 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 day of the industrial action.
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 both 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 review the situation and update you of our intentions as soon as possible in advance of the
other proposed industrial action dates (Wednesday 15th March and Thursday 16th March 2023).

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)