State Examinations in June 2021

Arrangements for State Examinations in June 2021

Based on the recent Department of Education Circular Heywood Community School has put in place the following guidelines for the 2021 State Examinations. In light of Covid-19 a new text messaging procedure is now in place for the collection of students (see number 6 below). Only texts from the parents’ mobile numbers already registered with the school will be accepted. Please text the school mobile with details if a parent’s mobile number needs to be added.

1. School Code of Behaviour applies throughout the exams. Full school uniform must be worn.
2. Assembly: There will be an assembly on the first morning of the exams (8.40 a.m.) in the Sports Hall. From then onwards students must inform themselves of their own individual exam timetable.
3. Canteen facilities will not be provided during the examination period. Parents are advised to provide a packed lunch if students are staying in the school. Due to the varying length of morning examinations, lunchtime will not commence until all morning exams are finished.
4. SUPERVISED STUDY facilities will be available during the exams. However, this privilege will be withdrawn from any student who disrupts the study atmosphere. Parents will subsequently have to collect students immediately after each exam.
5. This year we are allowing students to bring cars into the school grounds. There are conditions regarding the collection of other students however (see below). In the interest of safety to others, parents’ co-operation is requested in this matter.
6. Those students with no exams in the afternoon may be collected promptly after the morning examination. Please refer to the lunchtime roster sheet on the back of the supplied timetable. To avoid unnecessary contact parents are asked not to enter the school premises. Instead parents are asked to text the school mobile number when arriving at the school to collect a student providing clear details using one of the following criteria:
   1. The parent has arrived at the school to collect the student. The student (if present in the gym) will then be sent out.
   2. Student is to go home with a responsible adult (preferably parent of another student).
   3. Student is allowed to go home with another student. The school will look for full details on this and reserves the right to withhold permission.
   4. The student can walk home (if the student lives in the environs of the school). A written letter can also be provided at the beginning of the State Examinations to allow for B, C or D for the duration of the examinations.
   5. Students will not be allowed to leave the school until the departure of school buses under any other circumstances. It is up to the parent / guardian to ensure the conditions above are met.
7. Those students with afternoon exams only should present themselves at 1.00p.m. in the Sports Hall and participate in supervised study. This will facilitate teachers in identifying students who may have forgotten to attend for an examination. Students are asked to email Mr. O Suilleabhain in advance if not attending for an examination (aosuilleabhain@heywood.ie).

Your ongoing support and cooperation is appreciated.