Phased re-opening
We are aware that the government is planning for wider opening of schools from June 1st. Please note that we have not yet set a date for wider opening at Pennyhill. School will be open to those with Critical Worker positions from June 1st no other children must attend until further notification has been sent to you from the school.
Supporting Home Learning Routines
Follow the link below to access a short support sheet developed by the EEF to promote routines at home during the crisis.
Oak National Academy
https://www.thenational.academy/online-classroom
This is a tool that was mentioned by the Secretary of State for Education – Gavin Williamson. They have set up online lessons for each year group in English, Maths and Foundation subjects.
There are two options for using these resources:
Either you can follow a set plan of lessons across a range of subjects – for this, click the Schedule option below.
Or you can access particular lessons in certain subjects – for this, click the Subject option below. If choosing the subject option, your teacher will let you know which lessons you need to do and when.
The subject schedules can be found here:
https://www.thenational.academy/online-classroom/schedule
From Monday 20th April, BBC Bitesize are providing daily lessons – here is what they have said on their website:
From 20 April, you’ll be able to access regular daily lessons in English and Maths, as well as other core subjects, in an expanded version of our website and also on special programmes broadcast on BBC iPlayer and BBC Red Button.
We’ve worked with our colleagues in other parts of the BBC and education experts from around the UK to make sure everyone who needs it can access learning resources during this uncertain time. You can also expect some of it to be delivered by well-known faces.
Lessons on screen
BBC iPlayer and the Red Button service will host Bitesize Daily. These are six different 20 minute shows, each designed to target a specific age group, from ages five to 14, and for pupils throughout the UK. Experts and teachers will be involved, covering what should be learned that day for the different year groups and key stages. Maths, Science and English will be covered in dedicated programmes, and other subjects such as History, Geography, Music and Art will also be covered.
As the number of COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the globe, stress and anxiety around the virus have risen right alongside them. During times of uncertainty and high stress, it’s helpful to remember you’re not alone in how you feel. Practicing self-compassion during this time is also important. Be honest about how you’re truly feeling, and remember that if you’re not feeling well, you’re not only being to kind to yourself by staying home, but you’re protecting those around you as well.
Support for families and local residents
The Council has developed a website for families, local residents and business detailing the latest support and advice we are able to offer. https://www.sandwell.gov.uk/coronavirus
Fuel debt
As more and more people are self-isolating there is a danger that the most vulnerable on pre-payment meters will suffer fuel debt due to the inability to top up. With more staying at home (including an increased number of children), energy use will rise at a time when income may drop and health could be compromised. The Government has announced measures to help people affected. Details can be found at: www.gov.uk/government/news/government-agrees-measures-with-energy-industry-to-support-vulnerable-people-through-covid-19
The Council is in partnership with Agility Eco who administer the LEAP (Local Energy Advice Partnership) scheme. Available to all tenures, the partnership is aimed at reducing fuel poverty and, apart from providing basic energy advice, it delivers other services such as benefit maximisation. Details via the Council’s website at: www.sandwell.gov.uk/energy