A DORCHESTER School is preparing to go virtual in the event of a potential closure due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The Prince of Wales School has informed parents and carers that in the unlikely event of an enforced closure, the school will commit to providing 'comprehensive and inclusive remote access to learning’. In a statement to parents and carers, the school said, it stands fully prepared to launch what it is calling the ‘#InspiredToLearn COVID-19 Virtual School’ with immediate access and support.

Headteacher Gary Spracklen said: "Should the need arise for this provision, we will issue immediate guidance on both the platforms to be used and the rules of engagement, as well as comprehensive advice and ongoing support to our pupils and all parents/carers.

"Where possible, we will also provide access to hardware resources that would otherwise be locked down inside the school building. This will include sending home school-owned tablet and Chromebook computers to those families who need our support.

"I am very confident we can deliver universal access with the resources we have available and ensure no child is left behind. Our aim is to ensure that no learning time is lost and all children continue to make excellent progress."

Tracy Brooker, who is a parent at the school, said: "It’s reassuring as a parent to know that the school has plans in place in case of the unlikely enforced closure of the school.

"The school already has a significant presence online with a host of tools to support my child to be successful. I have every confidence in the school leadership team to make the best of a difficult situation."

Mr Spracklen added that, while online learning can be extremely powerful, he recognises it can be hard to maintain interest and impact, because the novelty quickly fades and no one wants to be sat in front of a computer screen all day long.

He said: "For that reason, parents and carers can be assured that should the need arise for this provision, The Prince of Wales School will ensure a blended approach to learning through the ‘#InspiredToLearn COVID-19 Virtual School’. Our aim, as ever, will be to continue to inspire all children to learn."