Remote Education and Home Learning

Our Commitment

As a Catholic school, we are committed to supporting every child to flourish academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally. We recognise the importance of maintaining continuity of education whenever circumstances make attendance at school impossible. Our approach is guided by our Catholic values of service, community, compassion and respect for the dignity of every individual.

We believe that face-to-face education is the best place for children to learn and develop. However, when pupils are unable to attend school and are well enough to engage with learning, we will make appropriate arrangements to support their education remotely.

Remote Education Provision

Should remote learning become necessary, we will use Microsoft Teams as our primary platform for:

• Setting and distributing learning activities
• Sharing teaching resources and guidance
• Providing feedback on completed work
• Communicating with pupils and parents/carers
• Facilitating appropriate online learning opportunities where suitable

Pupils will access learning through their school Microsoft 365 account. Information regarding login details and technical support will be provided to families as required.

When Remote Education May Be Used

Remote education may be provided in circumstances where:

• A pupil is unable to attend school for a period of time but is well enough to learn.
• Attendance at school is restricted due to exceptional circumstances.
• The school is advised to provide remote learning arrangements by relevant authorities.

Remote education will be considered only where attendance at school is not possible, and it should not be viewed as an alternative to regular attendance. The Department for Education makes clear that attendance at school remains the priority wherever possible. [gov.uk], [gov.uk]

Expectations for Pupils

When learning remotely, pupils are expected to:

• Engage with learning activities to the best of their ability.
• Complete work within the agreed timescales.
• Follow our behaviour expectations when communicating online.
• Use school technology responsibly and safely.

Expectations for Parents and Carers

We ask parents and carers to:

• Support their child in accessing remote learning where appropriate.
• Encourage regular engagement with learning activities.
• Maintain communication with the school if difficulties arise.
• Ensure children use online platforms safely and appropriately.

Support for Vulnerable Pupils and Pupils with SEND

We recognise that some pupils may require additional support to access remote education. Where appropriate, reasonable adjustments will be made and individual support arrangements considered to help pupils continue learning successfully.

Online Safety

Safeguarding remains our highest priority. All remote learning and communication will be conducted through approved school systems. Pupils and families are expected to follow the school's Online Safety and Acceptable Use policies when accessing remote education.

Department for Education Guidance

The Department for Education expects schools to maintain the capability to provide remote education when attendance is not possible and includes information about remote education within its guidance on information schools should publish online. [gov.uk], [gov.uk]

Further information about our remote education arrangements can be obtained by contacting the school office.