Ballymoney Model Integrated Primary School

Parents we share your anxiety in these uncertain times. We have received no further updates from the Department of Education regarding school closures. A small number of parents have contacted school to let us know that they have decided to self-isolate their child/ren from school. This may be due to their child being unwell, a medical situation within their family or their own personal decision.  Parents who have an unwell child have contacted their doctor/doctor on call/ or the 111 helpline and have been advised to self-isolate for 14 days. Children and adults in these situations are not tested for the Covid-19 virus. The Public Health Agency are in agreement with the robust cleaning arrangements put in place by the Education Authority which will eliminate any environmental spread of the virus.

We have taken today, Wednesday 18th March, as a School Development Day to allow teachers to plan work for pupils for when schools close. This has proved to have been invaluable and teachers and classroom assistants have been very busy putting together a selection of resources to support pupils with their learning. Thursday 19th March, school will be open as usual, however, any parent who chooses to keep their child/children at home for self-isolation has the right to do so. We totally understand this viewpoint but we would ask that you inform us of this by completing a Communication Form on the new school app.   

In the meantime, the following have been cancelled, special visitors, scheduled trips, Shared Education activities, swimming and Term 2B Extra-Curricular activities. Associated refunds will be processed shortly as will refunds for school dinners that were booked for today. We will also endeavour to minimise the amount of time children are in large groups.

We understand that parents are very anxious regarding the virus. It is important to minimise anxiety for everyone, but especially for the children.

We take advice from the Public Health Agency and Stormont and will update parents of any new announcements or decisions as soon as we know.

Thank you for your support and understanding as we work within this worrying and difficult situation.

Mrs Jamison