Dear Parents and Carers
I hope you are well. I have been corresponding with you for a while via the Head’s Herald, on the need to practice our Lockdown procedures. Whilst it is highly unlikely we need to invoke these procedures; it is of the upmost importance that these are practiced.
A Lockdown in a school setting is needed when there is a significant threat to the safety of those in my care. I understand that if this were a real situation the emergency services would be supporting and possibly directing us. Nevertheless, I need to know and ensure the students and staff know exactly what to do if the threat were imminent as measures need to be taken before the emergency services would attend the scene.
The document that we have created for the key people (Senior Leadership Team) is very comprehensive, as it has every possible scenario in it. What we need to do is practice the Lockdown in terms of what the signal is and what should happen if the signal is heard. I have tried to keep this as simple as possible for staff and students so we can execute the procedure effectively.
I appreciate and understand it may be a scary experience for some, so the staff and students are being fully briefed this Friday. The SEND Team will be working closely with our vulnerable students to ensure they understand what is going on and so they are not distressed in any way.
I have attached the PowerPoint that will be shared with the students Period 1 on Friday, so you can see the information first hand. I have dedicated this period for staff to share the information with all the students, so that there is a consistent approach. Please click here to view the document. The staff will have been briefed separately, prior to Friday Period 1, as they need to be clear on their roles and the expectations, I have to think of them too in a situation like this. I understand that there may be a lot of questions and if you want to direct them to me, I will do my best to assist bscott-herron@boteler.org.uk
The Lockdown will take place on Monday 14th July. I cannot tell you the specific time, as I need the drill to be as authentic as possible in terms of the reaction to the signal. The Senior Leadership Team will go around to every room to check that the instructions have been followed and note any areas for improvement. I do need everyone to take it seriously and to follow instructions. I have been clear regarding how the students should behave and react, but I know if the situation were real then things may be out of my control. However, I want to do everything in my power to ensure if it ever did happen, we would know what to do.
I really do appreciate you taking the time to read through all this information and if you have any feedback, please just email me. Please also do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any further assistance.
Yours faithfully
Mrs B Scott-Herron
Headteacher