Topic ID 4990
Morgans Primary is closed again today, can I ask if your childrens primary school is closed today? My child still not able to start Reception!
Reply ID 70681
Simon Balle's closed. Hang on, it's open. No it's closed. The website doesn't say it's closed so it must be open. So off they bravely trek across the tundra of central Hertford. Now my daughter has phoned to say only about half of her year have turned up and that they may be sent home again.
Reply ID 70682
Middleton and Thundridge (both Ware schools) are closed. Kingshill and St Mary's (again Ware) are closing at noon given forecast of worsening conditions.
Reply ID 70683
Hollybush is closed. think they all are today tbh.
Reply ID 70684
Sele is open for the moment[:D]
Reply ID 70686
Abel Smith is closed.
Reply ID 70688
quote:Panic not, Dennis - they've made it back to Base Camp in St.Andrew Street. ps we're now supplying new technology adhesives for the cold snap... ...i gloos pps sorry, no customers. perhaps I'll start writing another panto today[:)]
Originally posted by dennismoore
Simon Balle's closed. Hang on, it's open. No it's closed. The website doesn't say it's closed so it must be open. So off they bravely trek across the tundra of central Hertford. Now my daughter has phoned to say only about half of her year have turned up and that they may be sent home again.
Reply ID 70691
Many inches of snow and still snowing hard here in Bengeo.
Reply ID 70695
quote:Could you look after them til the end of the day please Arty? Thanks. [:D]
Originally posted by Artyquote:Panic not, Dennis - they've made it back to Base Camp in St.Andrew Street. ps we're now supplying new technology adhesives for the cold snap... ...i gloos pps sorry, no customers. perhaps I'll start writing another panto today[:)]
Originally posted by dennismoore
Simon Balle's closed. Hang on, it's open. No it's closed. The website doesn't say it's closed so it must be open. So off they bravely trek across the tundra of central Hertford. Now my daughter has phoned to say only about half of her year have turned up and that they may be sent home again.
Reply ID 70696
Wheatcroft closed and saying it will be closed tomorrow too. Simon Balle has sent all the kids home and will make a decision about tomorrow by 7.00pm - but they are not to go in till 10.00am tomorrow if it is open. Morgans well and truly closed. Half of my office now gone home too What a waste of time Parent Mail is - we may as well just post closures on here. Every time there is something like this - the Parent Mail system crashes with overload. [:(!]
Reply ID 70697
Morgans infants was shut yesterday until further notice due to the boiler not working .... but the school often seems to shut when other schools stay open anyway ie 18 Dec.
Reply ID 70702
Sele now closed [:(]
Reply ID 70707
Richard Hale closed - and is tomorrow as well. Presdales haven't gone back yet but they have a message on their website that they will be closed until Monday 11th!
Reply ID 70710
It is VERY unusual for Richard Hale to close!
Reply ID 70712
Richard Hale was open this morning, but the kids are on the way home now. Chauncy also open. Hertford Heath primary closed. Pines Pre-school closed.
Reply ID 70715
anyone know how Simon Balle will get the message out? Couldn't find anything this morning
Reply ID 70716
Millie - on their website it says the following: Snow update: Weds 6th January 10am The school is now closed. A decision will be posted on this website by 7pm this evening as to events tomorrow. If we are open. school will not start until 10am. My guess is that it will be closed along with the RHS and Presdales.
Reply ID 70718
thanks Golden [:)]
Reply ID 70723
Write a panto Arty? Oh no you’re not![:D]
Reply ID 70725
quote:Oh yes I am. You're snow fun, Eyeone. If you get my drift. ps still no customers [:(] Will go home in a minute, but expect to be greeted tomorrow with ' I came all the way from Ware yesterday afternoon for a tube of Acrylic Paint and you weren't open...'
Originally posted by Eyeone
Write a panto Arty? Oh no you’re not![:D]
Reply ID 70733
Have you gone yet Arty? Or have you been snowed under with customers?[:)]
Reply ID 70734
This bad weather hasn't ended yeti.
Reply ID 70743
My son is due to start reception this week and so far my experience of Morgans is that they shut at the fist opportunity. Agree with City Bird! Appreciate today is awful and they are unable to open the school, however, they decided to close on 18th dec before the snow even settled while most of the other Hertford schools stayed open. I hope my opinion of Morgans proves to be incorrect but do any other parents have this problem?
Reply ID 70745
To check, Click this HCC link. http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99
Reply ID 70746
quote:They dont seem to have updated this site this time round. http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99 is also a good place to look.
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
To check, Click this HCC link. http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99
Reply ID 70747
quote:It has been cleared ready for tomorrow, If you look you will see that some schools have already confimed they are shut tomorrow.
Originally posted by GillPquote:They dont seem to have updated this site this time round. http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99 is also a good place to look.
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
To check, Click this HCC link. http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99
Reply ID 70750
Simon Balle is closed as is Middleton in Ware
Reply ID 70754
Bengeo School has just posted that it will be closed Thursday
Reply ID 70756
Hertford Heath also definately closed tommorow. My son eager to start reception! I am secretly hoping Friday they are open as i am having an operation Monday so won't get to take him to school for a good few weeks.... Mr.kkey21 will have to do his first day at school :-(
Reply ID 70759
Sele School closed tomorrow as well, unsurprisingly.
Reply ID 70762
Abel Smith too
Reply ID 70766
Hollybush also closed tomorrow.
Reply ID 70767
I didn't know there were this many schools in Hertford!
Reply ID 70774
Millmead was open until 1.30pm, They always open when possible, but are very understanding If you choose not to send your kids in and don’t mark them down as being unauthorised absent or anything and they understand if you get there a bit late or pick up early. It’s better that the kids are there for a few hours than not at all. If Millmead can do it I’m the other primary’s in Hertford could???
Reply ID 70775
Presumably the schools will be open on Saturday to compensate for being shut today.[:D]
Reply ID 70777
I think we will find that most, if not all, have been instructed to close by HCC as the roads will surely be worse tomorrow.
Reply ID 70778
quote:Now that would be superb - I could have a rare day of peace [8D] Agree with previous postings - if Millie can do it, so should others. Schools close far too readily as soon as the first flake lands in the playground.
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
Presumably the schools will be open on Saturday to compensate for being shut today.[:D]
Reply ID 70779
quote:I heard a debate about this on Radio 4 this morning. Hope someone will correct me if I'm wrong but one of the reasons parents are left making comments like Joby's about schools closing too readily is this: If the headteachers open the school, but then half the kids don't make it in, the school must mark them as 'unauthorised absent'. This is one of the indicators they are assessed on, so the pressure is on to close and keep a clean slate. So Millmead might be bending the rules maybe, if it's not marking non-attenders as 'unauthorised absent' [?]
Originally posted by hearts
If you choose not to send your kids in and don’t mark them down as being unauthorised absent or anything
Reply ID 70780
Wheatcroft, St Jospehs and Mill Mead closed tomorrow as well. That's them all isn't it?
Reply ID 70782
oh! I hope I didn't get anyone in trouble, I probably heard it wrong any. I'm sure there are exceptions in certain weather conditions (if not there should be for those that live to far to walk). I for one am very grateful that my son's is open more than most. Not all parents are able to have snow days and work from home i.e. nurses and police and we rely on schools being open.
Reply ID 70799
Sele School and Bengeo School both opening at 10 am tomorrow
Reply ID 70800
Most schools round here should try harder - it's a joke you don't see shops and business deciding not to open because of the snow. It's sending totally the wrong message to our children - oooh if it's difficult just don't bother.
Reply ID 70801
Abel Smith are opening on Friday.
Reply ID 70802
Personally I feel for the headteachers, whatever they do they will be in the wrong with someone. If they close people don't like it because it inconvenient. If they open and a child gets hurt parents will scream blue murder. They are damned if they do and damned if they don't, it's the price they pay for the the 'lay the blame' and 'Sue!sue!sue!' culture we all have to live in. I know I would want to have to make the decision.
Reply ID 70803
The children are at just as much risk of being hurt whilst being off school - probably more at risk. It is just so inconsistent why do some schools open and others in the same vicinity don't it just doesn't stack up. And yes it is very inconvenient especially for the many parents juggling work who still have to travel long distances to go to work and find alternative child care. If they can make the effort why can't the schools have the same work ethic.
Reply ID 70804
Citybird - although I agree the children are possibly at more risk it is your risk and not the schools, hence they can't be sued. It is a very difficult decision for all concerned and very inconvenient for parents of young children but having seen the conditions outside tonight I wouldn't be surprised if the schools remain closed tomorrow. I drove past - sorry slid past - a primary school close to work at about 4PM and it would be almost suicidal to ask parents and children to go there if the conditions are the same tomorrow.
Reply ID 70806
quote:You may be right that they are at risk whilst off school as well, but if they are hurt whilst in the care of their parents/carers there is no risk of getting sued. I think it's a unfair to just say it's down to their work ethic, I see it as more a case of 'can they afford to be sued' if something goes wrong. Plus they do have to abide by Health and safety rules imposed upon them. You are right, it can be inconvenient, but no more than say if a child is taken ill and off school. As far as the inconsistency is concerned, that just shows they are in a difficult situation IMHO
Originally posted by CityBird
The children are at just as much risk of being hurt whilst being off school - probably more at risk. It is just so inconsistent why do some schools open and others in the same vicinity don't it just doesn't stack up. And yes it is very inconvenient especially for the many parents juggling work who still have to travel long distances to go to work and find alternative child care. If they can make the effort why can't the schools have the same work ethic.
Reply ID 70807
quote:It also depends on if there are enough teachers as well.A lot of teachers now live a long way from where they teach and can't get to school. I have been out over the last few days and I have seen some shops closed.It all depends on where the keyholder is travelling from
Originally posted by CityBird
Most schools round here should try harder - it's a joke you don't see shops and business deciding not to open because of the snow. It's sending totally the wrong message to our children - oooh if it's difficult just don't bother.
Reply ID 70809
Teachers have to travel in to ensure there is sufficient staff for the children. Insufficient staff = closed school. Also they have to ensure the safety of the area around the school. As daft as it sounds it only takes one parent to fall and brake an arm on school land and there is all hell to pay for.
Reply ID 70810
quote:The decision is made by the individual schools; my colleague's partner was off to go and make such a decision this evening. They have to take into account local road conditions (i.e. the local access - whether it's on a main road or in the middle of an ungritted estate), the staffing levels and whether the heating is up to it!
Originally posted by James007
I think we will find that most, if not all, have been instructed to close by HCC as the roads will surely be worse tomorrow.
Reply ID 70811
Hollybush is planning on being open tomorrow :D
Reply ID 70812
Looks like Sele and Richard Hale are open tomorrow, but Simon Balle is closed
Reply ID 70814
I don’t know if any of you are teachers on here but instead of having the day off when schools close those that could still make it in could always prepare the walkways, paths, and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when our kids return. Just a thought..??
Reply ID 70815
quote:Are you implying that because some of us have not slated the schools for closing that we must be teachers? I am not Are you also implying that just because the schools are closed the teachers have a day off? From what I understand, the teachers working day does not begin and end with the school day, there is far more too it than that.
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
I don’t know if any of you are teachers on here but instead of having the day off when schools close those that could still make it in could always prepare the walkways, paths, and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when our kids return. Just a thought..??
Reply ID 70816
I don't know if any of you are parents on here but instead of having the day off when you can't get to work those who have a partner at home could always go into school and prepare the walkways, paths and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when your kids return. Failing that, go and scrape a pavement or two.
Reply ID 70818
quote:[:D] ......or go in with the kids and get them to do it with you [:D]
Originally posted by CSP
I don't know if any of you are parents on here but instead of having the day off when you can't get to work those who have a partner at home could always go into school and prepare the walkways, paths and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when your kids return. Failing that, go and scrape a pavement or two.
Reply ID 70819
Yes, hollybush is planning on opening tomorrow. As far as I know Hertford Heath, Bengeo, Wheatcroft, St Joseph's and Abel Smith are as well. Morgan's and Mill Mead remaining closed.
Reply ID 70822
I am a parent and I will be going to work again tomorrow I have fortunately found someone else to look after my children. If liability is the issue, and I don't think it is given that many schools are opening, I would be happy to sign some sort of indemity - problem solved. Schools have caretakers they should be out clearing the school paths.
Reply ID 70827
I think that it is a real shame the work ethic we are showing our kids. I never missed a day from school due to snow/wind/rain etc, where has the British backbone gone? Don't turn up for work if there is any excuse. I am self employed and haven't missed a day's work due to the snow, no work no pay, it is all too easy to get paid for not turning up to work when you are government employed. If the schools stay shut regarding fear of being sued due to snow and ice, then all the snow and ice will have to be removed before they children are allowed back in so that could be quite a while. I am really concerned that our kids are missing vital education, so the longer they stay shut, the shorter the next holiday, maybe no half term holiday as they have already had it. Our children must still have the same number of days to be taught otherwise they will be missing out.
Reply ID 70829
quote:Totally agree. There is no excuse today for schools or any other establishemnt to be closed. The roads are clear, pavements should have been cleared by the community, side roads again, should have been cleared by the locals ... ITS NOT SNOWING NOW, so challenge the elements, you'll be surprised that they don't bite.
Originally posted by Hugh
I think that it is a real shame the work ethic we are showing our kids. I never missed a day from school due to snow/wind/rain etc, where has the British backbone gone? Don't turn up for work if there is any excuse. I am self employed and haven't missed a day's work due to the snow, no work no pay, it is all too easy to get paid for not turning up to work when you are government employed. If the schools stay shut regarding fear of being sued due to snow and ice, then all the snow and ice will have to be removed before they children are allowed back in so that could be quite a while. I am really concerned that our kids are missing vital education, so the longer they stay shut, the shorter the next holiday, maybe no half term holiday as they have already had it. Our children must still have the same number of days to be taught otherwise they will be missing out.
Reply ID 70830
quote:Any Government (or local government) employees want to answer this drivel?
Originally posted by Hugh
Don't turn up for work if there is any excuse. I am self employed and haven't missed a day's work due to the snow, no work no pay, it is all too easy to get paid for not turning up to work when you are government employed.
Reply ID 70834
I'll have a go at that one CSP. I work for local government and have been at work everyday this week as have my colleagues. As far as schools are concerned - I think the decision to close has been the right one.
Reply ID 70835
Just checked the HR system and of the 120 public sector employees I'm responsible for not one has failed to turn up for work on time this year.
Reply ID 70836
I can't find any individual group to blame. Our entire social structure has changed. Sure, when I was a kid, we all went to school in snow and my Dad didn't miss a day's work, even in 1963. The difference was that we all lived near where we worked and we all walked to school (those who lived within 3 miles). Our car was an occasional luxury which travelled only a few hundred miles a year and only a few kids lived far enough away to use the school bus. The rule was, if the bus didn't run, the kids who lived in the villages were excused school. Everybody else went in.
Reply ID 70837
My kids school has been closed all week (today also). Much to my twos chagrin the school has posted work for them to do on the school website. Should keep them quiet for an hour or two.
Reply ID 70839
quote:Your absolutely right about 1963. Almost everyone worked locally (including the teachers). Even if you rode a bike to school there was far less traffic around in those days so it wasn't so hazardous. Also, for those that worked in the City, the old trains were a lot heavier and seemed less prone to weather related problems.
Originally posted by shunt
I can't find any individual group to blame. Our entire social structure has changed. Sure, when I was a kid, we all went to school in snow and my Dad didn't miss a day's work, even in 1963. The difference was that we all lived near where we worked and we all walked to school (those who lived within 3 miles). Our car was an occasional luxury which travelled only a few hundred miles a year and only a few kids lived far enough away to use the school bus. The rule was, if the bus didn't run, the kids who lived in the villages were excused school. Everybody else went in.
Reply ID 70840
quote:Hmmm .. maybe this is the way society is going ... in years to come no children will go to school because of the safety issue (i.e. exposure to the sun on schools premises may induce skin disease, thus school gets sued) so everything will be done via the interweb .. what a terrible thought.
Originally posted by carlos fandango
My kids school has been closed all week (today also). Much to my twos chagrin the school has posted work for them to do on the school website. Should keep them quiet for an hour or two.
Reply ID 70842
I can see that this is a very emotive issue. I think the two opposing sides will probably never agree but a few things have come to mind.... I used to work in London many years ago and I also have worked for Local Government over the years I think there were two occasions when I couldn't get into work and on both occasions I had to use up holiday days, them's the breaks. With regard to work ethic, I really do think it's very unfair to label all those who can't manage to get to work as having a bad work ethic. Mr G is self employed so if he doesn't work he doesn't get paid, but as a gardener there is nothing he can do, does that mean he has a bad attitude to work? I don't think so! Just because the schools are shut doesn't mean you can't get you children to do some work at home, attitude to work is something that comes from parents as well as society. As a parent, with regard to the whole school closure issue I have to say that if you are a working parent, either by choice or necessity, surely you should have some sort of back up plan for child care in place anyway for situations such as illness or situations like this. There has been a general condemning of councils with regard to gritting etc with people saying that they had plenty of notice that this was coming, surely parents had the same notice and were aware that schools may close (whether you agree with it or not) it was hardly a surprise. When we become parents inconvenience happens it part of the job description. I would prefer the schools to be open but I quite understand why they don't. Both my children's schools have opened today but from what we saw there was hardly any pupils there, go figure! As shunt says our entire social structure has changed, you cant blame any one group for that. It's is all our responsibility. I am sure there is much more I could say but think I had better shut up now [:)]
Reply ID 70843
quote:That's impressive, possibly even a record. 120 employees and not one absent day between them in a whole year? For most sectors, just those claimed sick would be more than that.
Originally posted by Golden
Just checked the HR system and of the 120 public sector employees I'm responsible for not one has failed to turn up for work on time this year.
Reply ID 70845
quote:Golden said "this year", which is only 5 working days old. Still impressive that all 120 made it in despite the snow. Kind of re-enforces all the schools-should-be-open arguments in my opinion [:D]
Originally posted by shuntquote:That's impressive, possibly even a record. 120 employees and not one absent day between them in a whole year? For most sectors, just those claimed sick would be more than that.
Originally posted by Golden
Just checked the HR system and of the 120 public sector employees I'm responsible for not one has failed to turn up for work on time this year.
Reply ID 70846
quote:I work for local government. I have been to work each day; walking in and dragging my daughter behind me in a pushchair. I had to go home early on Wednesday as the nursery phoned and asked me to collect my daughter as THEY could not guarantee staffing levels. The afternoon I was off work I had to take annual leave (which I have banked up specifically for these sort of occasions). If you can not work, you have to take leave, if you don't have any left you have to take unpaid leave. Today in our unit everyone is in bar one employee who has a mobility problem. By why let facts get in the way of a good rant, eh?
Originally posted by Hugh it is all too easy to get paid for not turning up to work when you are government employed.
Reply ID 70847
Shunt - I have to apolgise for mistakenly omitting a couple of long term sick out of this - I'll try to get it right next time! The intention was more about pointing out that none have been late or taken 'duvet days' on short term sickness. Overall its been quite encouraging and despite some long journeys they all seem to have left in good time to get to work. At my workplace they were all out with shovels and brooms this morning clearing the remaining snow and ice from the yard. The public sector is changing with action being taken over sickness and lateness in my sector and these absences are reducing, there are still some that take liberties but managers are getting wise and the majority of staff actually welcome us dealing strongly with the malingerers. As for schools it would be interesting to know how many teachers made it into school and I'd appreciate the councils being more open with the reasons for closing individual schools - whether its the teachers not being able to attend or due to a formal risk assessment. As a parent it can be inconvenient but as others have said you have to be flexible and use/abuse friends and relatives when you can't get time off. Also as a parent of teenagers this helps with not having to provide emergency childcare but I have to say my eyes have been opened to how stroppy the little blighters get!! What on earth happens to them when they hit 13 and I can understand why some teachers would want the school shut for the day - it must be so peaceful!
Reply ID 70849
The thing is, even those people, like me, who didn't physically go into work, many of us still didn't 'skive'. I work in Milton Keynes and on Tuesday, before we left work, a message came round to say that in preparation for the expected snowfall, could people ensure they took work home in case they were snowed in. When I came back into work this morning, I had to send proof of what I had done at home on Wednesday and Thursday - which actually happened to be more that I usually do, as there were no interruptions from phone calls/e-mails/people stopping for a chat. I have to say though I do not understand how people can work from home on a regular basis - by the end of the first day I had cabin fever and by the end of the second day I was starting to go stir crazy[8)]
Reply ID 70850
just out of interest can I ask if anyone knows what Hertford primary schools are open today (Friday). There will be no Surprises at guessing Morgan's is closed. I think the head teacher merely listens to the weather forcast and shut's up shop. She does not even wait for a snow flake to fall and she is off for the day! I hope there are some teachers from Morgans on this forum!
Reply ID 70851
quote:The link to school closures is here; if there's nothing stated I would assume they are open as almost all stated they were closed yesterday on the same link:- http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99 (Hope that works) Abel Smith had lights on when I went past at 8am and man was shovelling snow out the way.
Originally posted by VC1
just out of interest can I ask if anyone knows what Hertford primary schools are open today (Friday).
Reply ID 70853
quote:I was going to give that link but I think it usually gets cleared at lunch time ready for new posts. From what minnie said last night on page 4 of this thread, it looks like most (if not all) the primary's are open (although many opened late) except Morgan's and Mill Mead. I know Bengeo opened late and will be closing 1/2 hour early.
Originally posted by SMTquote:The link to school closures is here; if there's nothing stated I would assume they are open as almost all stated they were closed yesterday on the same link:- http://www.imodus.com/summary.aspx?company=99 (Hope that works) Abel Smith had lights on when I went past at 8am and man was shovelling snow out the way.
Originally posted by VC1
just out of interest can I ask if anyone knows what Hertford primary schools are open today (Friday).
Reply ID 70854
I got the details from the site listed above although it has now been cleared ready for updates. I know Hollybush is definately open. we were told if you were likely to have difficulty picking up, it would be fine to pick up early.
Reply ID 70855
In defence of Morgans - They do have the additional problems at the moment of the KS1 building having a broken boiler. Parts are difficult to get and the huge windows and flat roof make the building difficult enough to keep warm - even with a boiler. The joys of working with a listed 1950's building! I understand that they are looking to move the younger pupils into the other building next week if the boiler is not fixed. However the logistics of this are difficult when you try to work out how to accomodate 7 extra classes in the remaining building which only has 6 classrooms already occupied. Also, there is no way to get to Morgans without negotiating a hill. I was around there yesterday and it was treacherous. I happen to know that many of the teachers either live at opposite ends of the county or in villages and would have found it difficult to get in . Hertford is an expensive place to live and many public sector workers can't afford to move here I have also been inconvenienced by the closures this week and we have lost our annual leave having to take care of children - which means that we have to pay for extra childcare in school holidays later in the years. I'm glad I didn't have to make the decision but I can understand why they decided to close. Personally, I'd declare a public holiday every time it snows and let's just enjoy the routine disruption and spontaneity. [:D]
Reply ID 70856
I understand there are a few hills around Morgans, however, none of them are as bad as the hill to Wheatcroft and the majority of children have to access that hill! Morgans also decided to close on 18th Decemeber when all other schools were open. I belive it is the Mandeville building that has the heating problem but the Queens building is fine so I would have thought they could have opened that building today. I am just getting the impression that the school can not be 'bothered' when the rest of Hertfords primary schools can be bothered. Chief wants schools to stay open in Hertfordshire: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/beds/bucks/herts/8447600.stm
Reply ID 70857
quote:Or maybe ask for a hand-out from the Government? .. they weren't backward in coming forward when the Banks asked for a sub?
Originally posted by newgirl
In defence of Morgans - They do have the additional problems at the moment of the KS1 building having a broken boiler. Parts are difficult to get and the huge windows and flat roof make the building difficult enough to keep warm - even with a boiler. The joys of working with a listed 1950's building! I understand that they are looking to move the younger pupils into the other building next week if the boiler is not fixed. However the logistics of this are difficult when you try to work out how to accomodate 7 extra classes in the remaining building which only has 6 classrooms already occupied. Also, there is no way to get to Morgans without negotiating a hill. I was around there yesterday and it was treacherous. I happen to know that many of the teachers either live at opposite ends of the county or in villages and would have found it difficult to get in . Hertford is an expensive place to live and many public sector workers can't afford to move here I have also been inconvenienced by the closures this week and we have lost our annual leave having to take care of children - which means that we have to pay for extra childcare in school holidays later in the years. I'm glad I didn't have to make the decision but I can understand why they decided to close. Personally, I'd declare a public holiday every time it snows and let's just enjoy the routine disruption and spontaneity. [:D]
Reply ID 70859
quote:That man you saw was quite possibly the headmaster - hertford born and bred take note! [:)] I was appalled to hear on the radio this morning that somewhere in London the scumbag 'no win no fee' law firms are leafletting the area around some schools offering their services if a child slips on ice whilst at school. Can't blaim the heads really for closing. [V]
Originally posted by SMT Abel Smith had lights on when I went past at 8am and man was shovelling snow out the way.
Reply ID 70860
St Joseph's was open today and the head was there at 7am shovelling the snow so the children had safe paths to walk on. He looked quite pooped by 9am!
Reply ID 70861
Leo that is appalling. It makes me wonder if the Health and Safety legislation is driven more to protect the individual/state against these self serving idiots or if it is there to protect the public. Actions such as these must make those headteachers who open their schools question whether it is actually worth the effort. In contrast I've also heard of schools being assisted by the community to clear access and playgrounds so that schools can open; I would prefer the media to applaud those efforts than to give publicity to a greed driven minority.
Reply ID 70862
quote:FFS
Originally posted by gemipicornquote:Are you implying that because some of us have not slated the schools for closing that we must be teachers? I am not Are you also implying that just because the schools are closed the teachers have a day off? From what I understand, the teachers working day does not begin and end with the school day, there is far more too it than that.
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
I don’t know if any of you are teachers on here but instead of having the day off when schools close those that could still make it in could always prepare the walkways, paths, and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when our kids return. Just a thought..??
Reply ID 70863
quote:have you been up to the school[?] I have just been past the school and the whole area is bad for driving. I think that the decision to stay closed today was the right one,given that a lot of parents would bring their children to school by car
Originally posted by VC1
I understand there are a few hills around Morgans, however, none of them are as bad as the hill to Wheatcroft and the majority of children have to access that hill! Morgans also decided to close on 18th Decemeber when all other schools were open. I belive it is the Mandeville building that has the heating problem but the Queens building is fine so I would have thought they could have opened that building today. I am just getting the impression that the school can not be 'bothered' when the rest of Hertfords primary schools can be bothered. Chief wants schools to stay open in Hertfordshire: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/beds/bucks/herts/8447600.stm
Reply ID 70864
quote:I don't personally know Morgans school but in my experience the head and governors of any school will try as hard as they can to keep their school open and a decision to close won't be made simply because they can't be bothered. It's not only about whether or not the children can make it to the school gates.
Originally posted by VC1
I understand there are a few hills around Morgans, however, none of them are as bad as the hill to Wheatcroft and the majority of children have to access that hill! Morgans also decided to close on 18th Decemeber when all other schools were open. I belive it is the Mandeville building that has the heating problem but the Queens building is fine so I would have thought they could have opened that building today. I am just getting the impression that the school can not be 'bothered' when the rest of Hertfords primary schools can be bothered. Chief wants schools to stay open in Hertfordshire: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/beds/bucks/herts/8447600.stm
Reply ID 70865
quote:Well that's a succint reply. Perhaps I missunderstood your post. My appologies if that was the case.
Originally posted by hertford born and bredquote:FFS
Originally posted by gemipicornquote:Are you implying that because some of us have not slated the schools for closing that we must be teachers? I am not Are you also implying that just because the schools are closed the teachers have a day off? From what I understand, the teachers working day does not begin and end with the school day, there is far more too it than that.
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
I don’t know if any of you are teachers on here but instead of having the day off when schools close those that could still make it in could always prepare the walkways, paths, and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when our kids return. Just a thought..??
Reply ID 70871
quote:Why don't YOU go and prepare the walkways, paths and playgrounds for the children like a real man does and let the teachers prepare the lessons so that your kids are nicely and safely educated? Just a thought. [:)]
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
I don’t know if any of you are teachers on here but instead of having the day off when schools close those that could still make it in could always prepare the walkways, paths, and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when our kids return. Just a thought..??
Reply ID 70877
quote:
Originally posted by Hugh
.....Don't turn up for work if there is any excuse. I am self employed and haven't missed a day's work due to the snow, no work no pay, it is all too easy to get paid for not turning up to work when you are (...) employed.
quote:I haven't been into the office for the last three days. Instead I have been logging on to work's pc system remotely at 8.00am, when I would normally be travelling or, in this weather, sitting on a train somewhere waiting for it to move. Like Jo, I get more done due to less interruptions. To Mrs P's concern, I tend to work till 6pm, meaning my employer gets more out of me - and I don't get overtime. Being organised helps, but so does working for a good employer who will let you work from home - or having work of some kind that can be done from home. Mrs P is self employed and walks to work in Hertford. She has been to work every day this week. Not everyone has their feet up...[:D]
Originally posted by Jo S
The thing is, even those people, like me, who didn't physically go into work, many of us still didn't 'skive'....
Reply ID 70906
quote:If you want a argument James carry on..Read my post properly it was just a thought..And if must know i have been driving all over Herts and North London this week like a real man does working in schools getting there boilers and heating working.
Originally posted by James007quote:Why don't YOU go and prepare the walkways, paths and playgrounds for the children like a real man does and let the teachers prepare the lessons so that your kids are nicely and safely educated? Just a thought. [:)]
Originally posted by hertford born and bred
I don’t know if any of you are teachers on here but instead of having the day off when schools close those that could still make it in could always prepare the walkways, paths, and playgrounds so they ARE nice and safe when our kids return. Just a thought..??
Reply ID 70914
haha Hope that includes Morgans boiler Hertford Born and bread?
Reply ID 70915
sorry that is born and bred not Bread!
Reply ID 70916
Morgans (Mrs Dutt) sent out an email asking any fit and able parents who have time and wish to help clear the extensive paths and communal areas of snow to meet up at 10am today. Myself and 2 neighbours are leaving shortly.
Reply ID 70917
quote:Mill Mead meet at 4pm with volunteers helping to clear the grounds.
Originally posted by Frenchie
Morgans (Mrs Dutt) sent out an email asking any fit and able parents who have time and wish to help clear the extensive paths and communal areas of snow to meet up at 10am today. Myself and 2 neighbours are leaving shortly.
Reply ID 70918
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70919
quote:I can remember being told not to clear the pavement outside the shop and if anyone slipped over after you had cleared it it would be your fault and not to take them inside the shop as it ment you took responsibility and could be sued!
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70920
quote:It's such a sad state of affairs but it does show the crux of the problem. It's not just the snow and ice that causes the difficulty, it's the system of liability we now live with.
Originally posted by Marilynquote:I can remember being told not to clear the pavement outside the shop and if anyone slipped over after you had cleared it it would be your fault and not to take them inside the shop as it ment you took responsibility and could be sued!
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70922
quote:I think its an urban myth about being sued if you clear the snow from outside your property/business.
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:
Originally posted by gemipicornquote:It's such a sad state of affairs but it does show the crux of the problem. It's not just the snow and ice that causes the difficulty, it's the system of liability we now live with.
Originally posted by Marilynquote:I can remember being told not to clear the pavement outside the shop and if anyone slipped over after you had cleared it it would be your fault and not to take them inside the shop as it ment you took responsibility and could be sued!
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70923
quote:You didn't read the link in my post then did you! [:)] See also this from The Daily Telegraph: [url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You and safety experts warn: don't clear icy pavements, you could get sued[/url]
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:I think its an urban myth about being sued if you clear the snow from outside your property/business.
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:
Originally posted by gemipicornquote:It's such a sad state of affairs but it does show the crux of the problem. It's not just the snow and ice that causes the difficulty, it's the system of liability we now live with.
Originally posted by Marilynquote:I can remember being told not to clear the pavement outside the shop and if anyone slipped over after you had cleared it it would be your fault and not to take them inside the shop as it ment you took responsibility and could be sued!
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70924
quote:It is, however not a new thing this, as much as the Mail and Telegraph might like you to think it is (I leave you to decide why they might like you to think so), but has always been so. By clearing a portion of pavement you are altering the condition of part of the public highway. Consider it like going out and filling a pothole in the road yourself, rather than reporting it. If the result was that you had concealed it's poor condition and someone had an accident as a result, yes, you would be liable for having interfered, both legally and actually.
Originally posted by Stevequote:You didn't read the link in my post then did you! [:)] See also this from The Daily Telegraph: [url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You and safety experts warn: don't clear icy pavements, you could get sued[/url]
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:I think its an urban myth about being sued if you clear the snow from outside your property/business.
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:
Originally posted by gemipicornquote:It's such a sad state of affairs but it does show the crux of the problem. It's not just the snow and ice that causes the difficulty, it's the system of liability we now live with.
Originally posted by Marilynquote:I can remember being told not to clear the pavement outside the shop and if anyone slipped over after you had cleared it it would be your fault and not to take them inside the shop as it ment you took responsibility and could be sued!
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70925
quote:This article has little to do with schools but is about people clearing public footpaths.
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70926
quote:As were parents, staff and pupils outside Millmead this afternoon. It's also a response to some of the issues raised in other comments in this thread.
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:This article has little to do with schools but is about people clearing public footpaths.
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70927
quote:I read it Steve, I just don't believe it. [:D] I think its more a case of lazy journalism with a heavy hint of scaremongering. I'd have expected the Mail headlline to have been 'Eastern European ice lowers house prices'. To keep on topic if you CAN be sued for clearing ice then you'd have to guess the schools will remain closed until all the snow/ice has gone...
Originally posted by Stevequote:You didn't read the link in my post then did you! [:)] See also this from The Daily Telegraph: [url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You and safety experts warn: don't clear icy pavements, you could get sued[/url]
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:I think its an urban myth about being sued if you clear the snow from outside your property/business.
Originally posted by Quatermassquote:
Originally posted by gemipicornquote:It's such a sad state of affairs but it does show the crux of the problem. It's not just the snow and ice that causes the difficulty, it's the system of liability we now live with.
Originally posted by Marilynquote:I can remember being told not to clear the pavement outside the shop and if anyone slipped over after you had cleared it it would be your fault and not to take them inside the shop as it ment you took responsibility and could be sued!
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70928
shunt, surely your pothole analogy is a red herring. How can clearing the path and pavement in front of your property make you liable by way of altering the condition? Particularly if you are improving the condition? By the same token, any driver who mounts the pavement in their car is altering the condition of the pavement, turning the crisp snow into compacted ice or slush, making it more slippery. Where does that sit with the courts? I just can't see a court would find you liable if someone sued you.
Reply ID 70930
Aaaaaaaaaaaaanyways..........on a more relevant note....50 adults turned up at Morgans (unlike this forum) and spent 1 hour clearing all the paths. Huge success ! http://www.morgans.herts.sch.uk/
Reply ID 70931
quote:
Originally posted by Frenchie
Aaaaaaaaaaaaanyways..........on a more relevant topic/note....50 adults turned up at Morgans (unlike this forum) and spent 1 hour clearing all the paths. Huge success ! http://www.morgans.herts.sch.uk/
Reply ID 70932
quote:You are right. I was hoping to find some rationality to the myth to give me back some faith in the media. On further research, I find it just a myth regurgitated as one of those daft, right-wing "health and safety gorn maaaad!" pieces of propaganda.
Originally posted by 2929paul
shunt, surely your pothole analogy is a red herring. How can clearing the path and pavement in front of your property make you liable by way of altering the condition? Particularly if you are improving the condition? By the same token, any driver who mounts the pavement in their car is altering the condition of the pavement, turning the crisp snow into compacted ice or slush, making it more slippery. Where does that sit with the courts? I just can't see a court would find you liable if someone sued you.
Reply ID 70940
quote:As far as I know they only cleared school grounds.
Originally posted by Stevequote:As were parents, staff and pupils outside Millmead this afternoon. It's also a response to some of the issues raised in other comments in this thread.
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:This article has little to do with schools but is about people clearing public footpaths.
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70942
quote:Looks like about 10 feet of public footpath outside the school was cleared as well.
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:As far as I know they only cleared school grounds.
Originally posted by Stevequote:As were parents, staff and pupils outside Millmead this afternoon. It's also a response to some of the issues raised in other comments in this thread.
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:This article has little to do with schools but is about people clearing public footpaths.
Originally posted by Steve
[url="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1242059/You-sued-clear-ice-paths-outside-home-health-safety-chiefs-warn.html"]You could be sued if you clear ice from paths outside your home, health and safety chiefs warn[/url]
Reply ID 70946
You are entitled to clear snow from inside the boundaries your own property, and be covered under the personal liability section of your household insurance. Obviously if you cleared it with water and made it into a skating rink, you would have a problem, but if you used a shovel/spade then you have taken reasonable care. However if outside your property, then public liability section comes into force eg if you left a spade outside and someone fell over it injuring themselves.
Reply ID 70990
Of course if you didn't clear the path outside your property could you be sued for negligence if someone slipped? :-)
Reply ID 71060
I've just heard that schools in the West of the county have started closing. Nearest so far is Monks Walk in Welwyn. Best to keep an eye on the websites....