Weather conditions in the Wakatipu Basins, such as snow and ice, can affect roads and buses and the operation of the school. Below are the two main adverse weather scenarios and the methods of communication that we will use for adverse weather.

Adverse Weather Overnight and Early Morning

A nominated representative for all the Wakatipu schools liaises with the QLDC’s roading contractor and the bus contractor to make a decision regarding any changes to the school day.

If changes are made, they are likely to be:

1. School is open as normal; however, some buses may be delayed or cancelled.

2. The school has a delayed start (usually 10 am), with a compacted timetable. Buses may be delayed or cancelled.

3. School is closed.

Please note that we liaise with all the schools in the Wakatipu Basin, and the decision to close or have a late start is coordinated by the designated representative for the school. (Conditions can vary across the basin and be different for schools).

Adverse Weather During the School Day

Please note that closing the school early is problematic for a number of reasons (notably trying to run all buses early), and we will try to operate until the normal end of the day if at all possible. Accordingly, we do not want parents coming to school to collect their children unless specifically notified to do so. The likely scenarios for adverse weather events during the school day are:

a) School runs until normal time, and buses run as usual.

b) School runs until normal time, but some buses run early and/or runs are altered.

c) School closes early, with buses also running early. In some cases, bus routes may be altered.

d) In an extreme adverse weather event, students may be kept at school until travel is safe or even stay overnight.

Communication

We will use the following channels for communicating with parents and students about adverse weather impacts:

• Skool Loop App alert - please download the free SKOOL LOOP App and sign up for alerts.

• Email.

• Facebook- please follow us on Facebook.

• Radio - announcements will also be made on local radio stations.

Our primary concern is our students' safety, which will always be paramount in our decision-making. If parents are on the roads, please ensure that vehicles are equipped for winter driving conditions.