Our priority is always to welcome children into school whenever they are well enough to attend. Remote education is intended to support pupils who cannot attend school for an extended period and is not a replacement for regular attendance.

At Bridge & Patrixbourne CEP School, we believe that children learn best when they are in school, surrounded by their teachers and friends. However, we recognise that there may be occasions when a child is unable to attend school for an extended period due to illness or other exceptional circumstances.

Where appropriate, we will work closely with families to ensure that pupils can continue to access learning and maintain their connection with school.

When Remote Education May Be Provided

Remote education may be considered where a pupil is expected to be absent from school for an extended period because of:

  • medical needs or recovery from illness
  • a planned medical procedure
  • exceptional circumstances agreed with the Headteacher
  • other situations where attendance at school is temporarily not possible.

Short-term illnesses, such as coughs, colds or minor infections, generally do not require remote education. Children should focus on recovering before returning to school.

Our Approach

Our aim is to provide learning that is as closely aligned as possible to the curriculum being taught in school.

Depending on the child's age and circumstances, this may include:

  • work matched to the learning taking place in class
  • access to learning through Microsoft Teams or Microsoft 365
  • resources provided via email
  • printed learning packs where online access is not appropriate
  • reading, mathematics and wider curriculum activities.

The precise arrangements will depend on the child's age, length of absence and individual needs.

Accessing Learning

Most remote learning is accessed using our Microsoft 365 platform.

Children may receive:

  • assignments through Microsoft Teams
  • electronic resources and presentations
  • links to appropriate educational websites
  • feedback from their teacher where appropriate.

Parents should contact the school office if they experience difficulties accessing online learning.

Supporting Children with Additional Needs

We recognise that remote education may need to be adapted for some pupils, particularly those with additional educational needs or disabilities.

Where appropriate, we will work with families to provide reasonable adjustments and resources that meet individual needs.

Expectations

We ask pupils to:

  • complete activities to the best of their ability
  • maintain regular reading
  • communicate respectfully with staff when using online platforms
  • follow our Online Safety guidance at all times.

We ask parents to:

  • encourage and support their child with establishing a suitable routine
  • ensure children use technology safely
  • contact school if further support is needed.

Technology Support

If you do not have access to a suitable device or reliable internet connection, please contact the school office. We will always seek to work with families to identify an appropriate solution wherever possible.

Staying Connected

We know that children benefit from remaining connected to their school community during periods of absence. Alongside providing learning activities, staff will maintain appropriate contact with families and review arrangements regularly.

If you have any questions about remote education, please contact the school office on 01227 830276 or email office@bridge.kent.sch.uk