Thursday 7th April 2022

 End of Spring Term update

Dear Parents/Carers,

This update is to inform you of some important dates and changes next term. Term finishes Friday 8th April, and the summer term begins on Monday 25th April.

You were sent a letter, earlier this week, from the Director of Education explaining the situation regarding Covid-19 restrictions, on pupils’ return in the summer term. The Welsh Government still insist that as a minimum, a face covering should be worn by secondary aged pupils/staff when moving around communal areas. This requirement will be reviewed by Welsh Government after Easter, and they will write to schools at this time. An updated risk assessment template will be provided to schools by the Local Authority as soon as they have confirmation from Welsh Government on appropriate control measures going forward. Please ensure that your child continues to bring masks with them, and wear them on school transport, after the Easter break.

Additional Bank Holiday

I would also like to remind you that there will be an additional bank holiday for the UK on Thursday 2nd June 2022 to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. As this bank holiday falls within the Whitsun break, we will take this extra bank holiday on Friday 29th April. Therefore, the school will be closed to all pupils and staff on this day.

Temporary change to school lunch time

During the GCSE examination period, we will be changing the time of the school lunch break. This will be on a temporary basis for a duration of four weeks. Morning break will remain at the same time, however the lunch break will be at the earlier time of 12.15-1.00pm instead of 1.15-2.00pm. The usual service will be provided in the school canteen. All afternoon examinations commence at 1.00pm, so by changing the time of lunch it will ensure that pupils sitting examinations are not disturbed by other pupils during the afternoon examinations. The change of lunch time will start on Monday 16th May. We will revert back to the current school day lunch time on Monday 20th June.

It has been great to see pupils enjoy a range of extra-curricular activities once more. I would encourage Year 10 and Year 11 pupils to make use of the revision resources, and additional revision sessions made available (see our school website for more details: https://pontcomp.co.uk/exam-information/ ).

Overall, pupils’ attitude to learning has been excellent and we have seen a significant improvement in school uniform since February, due to the availability of the indoor changing rooms, meaning that pupils should no longer be wearing PE kit to school. Your continued parental support in these matters is very much appreciated, it contributes enormously to the smooth running of the school.

Finally, I would also like to thank all staff for making the above possible through some challenging times this term. Please contact the school if you would like any further clarification. We look forward to welcoming back all pupils after the Easter break.

Yours sincerely,

Mr. Gareth Rees
Headteacher