Adverse Weather Conditions

In the event of severe weather every effort will be made to keep the school open; however, we may have close due to unavoidable circumstances, those circumstances being that it is no longer safe for staff and students to be onsite.

It is important that the school remains open so that parents are able to work and pupils can continue to learn. Orchards Academy will make every effort to prepare for severe snow and ice this winter.

How will we let you know if the school is closed?

Once the decision has been made to close the school we will post a notice on our website and notify parents via Parent Portal

You can visit www.kentclosures.co.uk and search for Orchards Academy in the text box. Announcements will also be made on BBC Radio Kent, Heart FM and KMFM. You can sign up to this service beforehand so emails can be sent directly to you free of charge (please note that texts will incur a charge).

What can you do to help?

Please visit http://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/what-we-look-after/winter-service for more information about gritting routes and travel issues around Kent so you can plan your journey.

Don’t forget to wear suitable warm clothing and footwear. School shoes will still be required whilst in school.

If you are a working parent or feel you may have a problem with a sudden early pick-up, please put a back-up plan in place with another family member or parent.

Many thanks for your support in helping Orchards Academy remain open during any periods of severe weather to come.

Work for students on snow (severe weather) days or when the school is closed There are tasks set for all year groups and for all subjects on Google Classrooms. They are designed so that students can work independently at home.