21 November 2022
Dear Parents /Carers of Year 6,
As you will be aware, we have often been able to offer a residential trip for our year six pupils towards the end of the summer term. This year, we have given a great deal of thought to this matter as the current national cost of living crisis continues and the ongoing pressures our families are facing as a result of the recession.
As you know, we are proud to be an inclusive school and an expensive trip (in excess of £250 for two nights) which could put financial strain on a large proportion of our families has led us to look into other options for our current year six pupils.
Guidance states that in order to avoid running trips which are not inclusive for many pupils on the basis of finance, we should consider:
Whilst we are unable to subsidise residential trips for the whole of year six (113 pupils), it is our plan to organise a one-day trip to the Essex Outdoors activity centre on Mersea Island and to offer other varied activities as part of an 'activities week'.
We know that some children and their families will be very disappointed by this decision and we apologise for this. It is not a decision we have come to lightly, but we have to consider the whole school community and the impact the current financial climate is having on everybody.
We hope that you understand our decision and that your child will enjoy the activities on offer in activities week, but if you do have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact one of the senior leadership team.
Thank you for your continued support.
With regards
Mrs Andrea Hall
Headteacher