Update 12 May
Following today’s update from the NI Assembly it is important that we remind parents of the criteria for accessing childcare in schools. They are being open for children of KEY WORKERS.
We know that many workplaces are gradually opening but this does not mean that everyone returning to work can access school for childcare. It remains for children of KEY WORKERS only.
KEY WORKER REMINDER
The key message to you remains that children should NOT be in school if at all possible and certainly not unless they meet the criteria.
Childminding in school should be the last resort after all other alternatives have been exhausted.
Your children will be safer at home rather than mingling with others from different families – schools are open to assist essential services personnel to fight coronavirus on the frontline and the fewer children we have in school the safer they will be. This is in line with general public health advice on social distancing.
There is no requirement for identified key worker parents to take up this offer or send their children to school if they do not wish to.
Note:
If older children in the family are at home then if possible they should look after their younger siblings- likewise if other children are accessing childcare elsewhere then arrangements should be made to include all your children.
EVERY CHILD WHO CAN BE SAFELY CARED FOR AT HOME SHOULD BE.
Key worker parents requiring care provision:
In single parent families, the main carer MUST be a Key Worker and be required at work.
Wrap around services will not be available and schools will only be open for normal school hours.
Provision of any level of service will be dependent on staff availability and the school may have to be closed if this becomes a problem.
If you are a key worker and you meet the criteria and wish to avail of this reduced provision, please contact the school via the email address below.
Your email should outline how each parent fulfils the criteria of a ‘key worker’ and the days which you will need the childcare provided.
