Remote Learning
Information for parents and carers about how we support children’s learning when attendance at school is not possible.
When might remote learning be provided?
We believe that children learn best when they are in school, learning alongside their teachers and classmates. Regular attendance remains our priority, and remote education is not intended to replace learning in the classroom.
However, there may be exceptional circumstances when pupils cannot attend school but are well enough to continue learning. These could include:
- An unexpected school closure, for example because of severe weather or a significant problem with the school building.
- Circumstances where attendance at school must temporarily be restricted.
- Individual situations where a pupil is unable to attend school for a period of time, but is able to learn, and remote education is considered appropriate.
Remote education for individual pupils will be considered on a case-by-case basis, alongside support to help them return to school as soon as possible.
If remote learning arrangements are needed, we will communicate with families about what to expect and how learning will be provided.
How will remote learning be delivered?
We aim to provide meaningful, age-appropriate learning activities that help children continue to develop their knowledge and skills. Wherever possible, learning will reflect the curriculum being taught in school, although some activities may need to be adapted.
The approach will depend on the circumstances, the length of time pupils are away from school and the needs of the children involved.
Live teaching using Microsoft Teams
Where live, video-led teaching is appropriate, teachers may use Microsoft Teams to deliver lessons or provide direct teaching and support.
If live sessions are arranged, families will receive information about how to join and when sessions will take place.
Live lessons will not necessarily form part of every remote learning arrangement.
Learning activities and resources
Teachers may provide learning through a variety of resources and approaches, including:
- Activities and instructions shared by email.
- Purple Mash.
- Accelerated Reader and associated reading activities.
- Times Tables Rock Stars.
- Links to recorded lessons and educational videos.
- Worksheets, reading books and other printed materials.
- Independent tasks, projects and practical activities.
Accessing our online learning resources
Many of the digital learning platforms used in school can also be accessed at home using children’s existing login details.
Visit our Online Learning Resources page for further information and links to the platforms used by the school.
Getting started with remote learning
If an unexpected closure occurs, the first day or two of remote education may look different while teachers make arrangements and prepare suitable learning activities.
Class teachers will provide information about the learning activities children should complete and how to access any resources required.
Where appropriate, this may include work sent by email, online activities or resources that children already use regularly in school.
What if we cannot access online learning?
We recognise that families have different circumstances and that access to devices, the internet or a suitable place to work may sometimes be difficult.
If your child is unable to access the learning provided, please contact the school office. We will discuss suitable alternatives, which may include printed worksheets, textbooks or other resources that can be used without an internet connection.
How much work should my child complete?
The amount and type of work will depend on your child’s age, stage of development, individual needs and the circumstances in which remote education is being provided.
Learning may include a combination of direct teaching, independent activities, reading and practice. Teachers will communicate appropriate expectations for the activities provided.
Engagement and feedback
Supporting learning at home
We encourage all pupils to engage with the learning activities provided and to complete work to the best of their ability.
Parents and carers can help by encouraging regular engagement, providing a suitable space for learning where possible and helping children access the resources they need.
We understand that family circumstances vary, and we encourage parents to contact the school if they experience difficulties.
Returning completed work
Class teachers will explain how completed activities should be shared or returned. This may include emailing completed work, sending photographs of written activities or using an appropriate online learning platform.
Where electronic submission is not possible, alternative arrangements can be discussed with the school.
Monitoring progress and providing feedback
Teachers will monitor pupils’ engagement with remote learning and provide feedback in ways that are appropriate to the activities being completed.
Feedback may include individual comments, discussions, quizzes, whole-class feedback or responses through digital learning platforms.
Where there are concerns about engagement, school staff may contact families to discuss any difficulties and offer support.
Supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities
We recognise that some children, including pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), may require additional support or adjustments to access remote learning.
Class teachers and the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) will work with families to consider suitable arrangements based on each child’s individual needs.
This may include adapted activities, alternative resources, additional guidance or communication through Microsoft Teams, email or telephone, where appropriate.
We encourage parents and carers to contact the school if their child requires additional support with remote education.
Staying safe when learning online
Keeping children safe remains a priority during any period of remote education. Online teaching and communication will follow the school’s safeguarding and online safety arrangements.
Parents and carers can support children by helping them access approved learning platforms, encouraging safe and responsible use of technology and ensuring children know how to raise a concern.
Further information and guidance can be found on our Online Safety page.
Questions or need support?
If you have any questions about remote learning, are experiencing difficulties accessing resources or need additional support, please contact the school office.
Email: enquiries@ham-street.org.uk
Telephone: 01233 732577