Dear Parents and Carers,

I am writing to provide an update regarding the new one-way system recently implemented within the school building.

As you may recall, this change was introduced in response to safety concerns raised by parents, students and staff regarding hallway congestion. While we are aware that there have been some initial teething problems, which we are already proactively addressing, the new system has already reduced risks in a number of areas around school.  Having said that, we recognise that some corridors currently appear very busy but it is worth noting that though busy, they are not unsafe. Since student traffic is now flowing in a single direction, these areas are significantly safer than the previous two- way model, which often resulted in bottlenecks. 

We are also aware that as students navigate the new routes, it is taking them longer to reach their lessons. We are pleased to report that this is improving daily as students identify the most efficient paths. As always, students have five minutes between lessons which will provide ample time once they become increasingly familiar with the system. 

To further improve the one-way system, we have already revised the flow of traffic this week in a few areas to alleviate potential overcrowding. In addition, based on constructive feedback from students, parents and staff, further adjustments will be considered this week.

We ask for your continued patience and support as we monitor and amend these routes to ensure the best possible flow. 

Social Media and Privacy Concerns
We are very disappointed to learn that posts regarding the one-way system has been shared on social media by some students and, regrettably, some parents and carers.

The sharing of such footage serves only to cause unnecessary alarm and significantly adds to the senior team workload as they have to investigate every post and comment made whilst also liaising directly with parents/ carers. I must remind you of the following:

• Policy Breaches: The recording and sharing of such footage by students is a direct breach of our School Behaviour Policy.

• Privacy Violations: We have received complaints from parents whose children appear in these videos without consent. The sharing of images of children without permission is a matter of great concern and has to be taken extremely seriously by the school in line with our commitment to safeguarding.

We request that all such videos and images be deleted immediately and are no longer shared.
Please be advised that a new system is a necessary safety measure and will not be reversed. However, I reiterate our commitment to making any necessary adjustments to ensure students can move freely, efficiently and, above all, safely around the school. 

Thank you for your cooperation and support in keeping our school community safe. 

Kind regards,

Miss H Mitchem
Deputy Headteacher