First Steps Together can confirm schools will now close at 12.30pm for the rest of the week, with Friday also now halved to protect staff and students.
It was announced on Monday that schools would close early on Tuesday 23 June through to Thursday 25 June, but due to the current forecast Friday 26 June has now been added.
Speaking on Monday, Executive Headteacher Catherine Donnelly said the action was following a school risk assessment.
She explained: "The wellbeing and safety of our students and staff remain our priority. Whilst we will continue to provide a safe learning environment during the morning, the forecast temperatures during the afternoon are expected to make conditions increasingly challenging."
It is re-emphasised that students should continue to attend school as normal each morning and are asked to:
Bring a reusable water bottle
Bring a hat/cap where possible
Wear sunscreen, applied before arriving at school (and provided if reapplication is required)
Wear loose, lightweight clothing where appropriate
Before students are released early, staff will continue to support them through:
Access to cooler areas of the school where possible
Regular hydration breaks throughout the day
Outdoor learning opportunities in shaded areas where appropriate
Ongoing monitoring of students' wellbeing
Activity packs will again be sent home with students each day and access to online learning will continue.
Local authority transport services will once again be informed to facilitate the safe collection of students at 12.30pm.
First Steps Together requests parents and carers make necessary arrangements to support this extra half-day.
Should circumstances change, or if there are any updates regarding transport arrangements, we will communicate directly with parents and carers as soon as possible.
The whole team here at First Steps Together wish to thank parents for their co-operation as we work together to keep everyone cool during this intense heat.
