It is always our intention, where possible to continue to open as normal during periods of inclement weather. We take our responsibilities seriously and are aware of the impact on families if the school is closed at short notice. 

Careful assessment is always made about whether opening in poor weather conditions is appropriate. There are several factors to consider. These include:

• The severity of the weather.
• The forecast and likelihood of an improvement or deterioration in the weather.
• The condition of the school site, and our ability to offer lessons as normal.
• Access to the school via local roads and transport for staff and students

The news page on our website (www.richmonduponthamesschool.org.uk/news) and our Twitter site will be regularly updated during periods of poor weather. 

On days of potential difficulty, early inspection of the site will be conducted and an initial decision will be taken, dependent upon the factors mentioned above. We will endeavour to update you on the school website, Twitter and email by 07:45. For this reason, it is important that we have your correct email address. If you need to make any updates to your contact details, you can do this through your Progresso account, accessible via this link: www.progresso.net 

There are times when we will need to review our decision to close throughout the day as these factors are often subject to change, and may result in the need to close during the course of a school day. We will always try to provide parents with as much notice as possible and will make every effort to ensure students and staff can leave the school and return home safely.