A letter from Wiltshire Council Leader, Philip Whitehead to Wiltshire schools

Dear Headteacher / Chair of Governors

Re: Return to schools in January

"I would like to thank you and all your staff for the way you have responded over the last four months, by keeping your school open for all pupils. You have all, collectively, played an essential part in the COVID-19 response.

"You will be aware that following the Government's announcement on 30 December 2020, Wiltshire Council local authority moved to the Government's COVID-19 tier 3 'very high alert' category from Thursday 31 December 2020. The details of this tier can be found on https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tier-3-very-high-alert (opens new window).

"The safety of all school communities in Wiltshire is of paramount concern. Whilst it is clearly important for pupils to continue their education, it remains the council's responsibility to work with you to ensure that this is done in such a way that we minimise the risks to the school community.

"I consider that headteachers and governing bodies are best placed to manage the return to school in January in-line with the current DFE guidance. The council will support your plans to provide for your school community from January 2021 onwards."

Yours sincerely

Philip Whitehead
Leader of Wiltshire Council