FAQs – Restricted Access to School Premises and Continuity of Learning

How will the learning continue online?

Our staff and students have a range of strategies and skills that will enable a seamless use of online learning during this time.

Teachers will use a variety of online learning tools in line with their curriculum planning to enhance student learning. These online tools will have been checked for appropriateness to the age group and relevance to the curriculum. These online tools include but are not limited to Canvas, Google Classroom, subscribed online portals and external websites that have been checked by the member of staff for suitability for that age group. All online learning, including homework tasks will be sent out via email to parents in the first instance, with links to Canvas, Google Classroom, and other external applications as appropriate.

In Early Years, teachers will email a minimum of three new learning opportunities each school day and require parents to send one response each day, in the form of text, photographs or videos.

In Primary, teachers will be expected to provide learning opportunities for each timetabled session on an adapted timetable and communicated throughout the week. There will be an expectation that each day, students experience a range of literacy-based sessions (reading, writing, Phonics etc), mathematical sessions (number, calculation, problem-solving etc), other subjects (science, Topic, art, etc) and other activities set by Specialist teachers (music, Slovene, French, PE etc).

In Secondary, teachers will be expected to provide learning opportunities for each timetabled session on an adapted timetable, including reading, questions, various exercises and other means of learning.

Are there expectations of teachers reviewing, marking and providing feedback to students?

Yes. Please see our Online Learning Policy for more details.

Can I come to school during the closure?

At the moment the school is not accessible for parents or students, only staff are allowed on school premises.

When will the school reopen?

The Slovene Government adopted a decision to temporarily close kindergartens and schools, effective Monday 16 March 2020. Schools will remain closed between 16 and 29 March 2020. We will keep you updated of any changes as and when these are communicated to us. Please note, only access to the school premises will close on Monday 16 March, the school and its services will continue to provide education online.

Is the stability of school staff affected by the virus?

Staff at BISL remain determined to provide continuous and high-quality remote E-Learning to all our students from Early Years through Sixth Form whilst access to the premises is restricted.

Should I go home or travel during this time?

Individuals always have to make a personal assessment of their family’s wellbeing. The Slovene Government is currently advising against all non-essential travel.

How confident can I be for my children to return to school once the Ministry allows?

Individuals always have to make a personal assessment of their family’s wellbeing in such situations. The school continues to monitor and review government directives, advice and guidance from the World Health Organisation and would only reopen the premises when we are certain of high levels of safety and security on site.

Tips to help you keep on track with your schoolwork and your routines at home:

• Consistency is key: maintain your regular morning routine of waking up, eating a nutritious breakfast, and getting dressed.
• Pick a spot that is free of distractions to set up your device and study materials.
• Create a daily schedule and use a spreadsheet to keep track of all your tasks, assignments and deadlines.
• Take breaks: eat healthy snacks and do exercises to stay energised and alert.
• Stay engaged in your e-learning: engaging with your teachers and classmates can help you stay connected with your school community. Reach out to your peers and advisors for extra help when needed.
• Most importantly, maintain good hygiene habits to stay safe and healthy. Check out our Health Advice page for more information on this.

How does the school react to the outbreak in terms of hygiene and security?

Campus hygiene is our priority at this time. Deep cleaning of the school is carried out every day, and ongoing disinfecting of areas throughout the working day. There are hand sanitisers in all areas for staff to use throughout the day.

How does the school check the health status of its staff during school closure?

Staff location and travel intentions have been collected by the Principal and all staff, as per the advice from the Slovene Government, is to remain in the country unless travel is for essential purposes. Daily communications are kept with all staff to ensure their health and safety.

Is there anyone affected by the virus in the school community?

There are currently no students or staff reported to have been affected by the virus, however, as per previous communication sent by the Principal on March 11, there has been one confirmed case of the virus in our parent community.

Can I visit the school during the closure of the premises?

Access to the school premises is restricted to authorised staff and personnel only. Until further notice, visitors are denied access. Our Admissions Team will keep in touch with you if you already had a visit or taster day scheduled.

How can I make an enquiry about the school during the closure?

If you would like to make a new enquiry, you are welcome to email our Admissions Team at admissions@britishschool.si or call +386 40 618 356 and we will provide you with comprehensive information regarding the school and our admission process. Alternatively, you can make an admissions enquiry online too.

How can I apply to register my child to join the school at this time?

You are welcome to complete our application form, which you will find here.

Is it possible for my child to receive a school offer during this time?

Offers will be made once all documentation has been received and the applicant has completed assessments (where applicable) and these have been approved by our Admissions and Senior Leadership Teams.