There are many factors that need to be considered to allow us to safely open the school during adverse weather. We will update the School closures and transport changes - Aberdeenshire Council website with any updates as soon as we have them. Please be aware that in the case of bad weather you should regularly review the website for any updates, as at these times, information may change.
Staffing
We can only open if we have enough staff to comply with adult to pupil ratios.
Snow Clearing
With heavier snowfall we would have to consider a delayed opening or school closure as we are not allowed to open the school to allow paths and exits to be cleared. Aberdeenshire Council have a Snow Warden Volunteering Scheme that anyone can sign up to, and after following very simple training, this would mean members of our parent body could assist, fully insured and with equipment provided, in the snow clearing efforts. If you are interested in becoming a Snow Warden Volunteer, please contact us.
School Lunches
Our lunches are prepared and delivered from Lairhillock School. If Lairhillock School is closed, hot lunch options will not be available for our pupils. Where at all possible and if staffing allows, Mackie Academy Kitchen may be available to provide a packed lunch. In the event of bad weather, I would encourage you to provide your child with a packed lunch from home.
Transport
As soon as we have the information from transport, we share this with families who have pupils who access this service. You can also contact the transport provider directly through the normal number to ask about your specific route.
Home Learning
During times of adverse weather or other unplanned school closures, activities will be available on our learning platform Just2Easy. You will also find home learning activities in the 'Our Pupils' section of this website under 'Home Learning' and 'Our Life Skills Progression'. The life skills progression is also available inside the front of pupils homework diaries.