Emergency Planning, Critical Incidents and Lockdown Procedures

At Ysgol Penrhyn-coch and Ysgol Penllwyn, the safety and wellbeing of our pupils, staff and visitors is our highest priority. The schools have comprehensive emergency, resilience and critical incident procedures in place to enable an effective response to a wide range of situations while minimising disruption to learning.

Our procedures cover incidents such as severe weather, utility failures, public health concerns, accidents, fire, flooding, security threats, cyber incidents, educational visit emergencies and other situations that may affect the school community.

Should an emergency occur, a designated Critical Incident Management Team coordinates the school's response, working closely with emergency services, the local authority and other relevant agencies. The priority is always to safeguard pupils and staff, maintain clear communication and restore normal school operations as quickly and safely as possible.

The schools maintain clear evacuation, shelter and lockdown procedures for situations where there may be a risk either within the school or in the surrounding area. Depending on the circumstances, pupils and staff may be required to remain safely indoors, evacuate to designated assembly points, or relocate to an alternative safe location. Staff receive regular training and emergency procedures are practised to ensure everyone understands their responsibilities.

In the event of a significant incident affecting the school day, parents and carers will be informed as quickly as possible through the school's communication systems. Regular updates and guidance will be provided where appropriate. In some emergency situations, parents may be asked not to come to the school until advised to do so, allowing emergency procedures to be carried out safely and efficiently.

Where a temporary closure or disruption to learning is necessary, arrangements are in place to support pupils' education remotely and maintain regular contact with families. Particular attention is given to safeguarding, wellbeing and supporting vulnerable learners.

These procedures are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain effective and reflect current Welsh Government and local authority guidance.