We are writing to you at a very difficult time in Hackney, the UK and the world. 

The Coronavirus outbreak means that the Government has taken the very difficult decision to close schools for most students. This is to help stop Coronavirus spreading. 

Even though things aren’t normal at the moment, and they often feel uncertain, everyone has a part to play in helping life to continue. This includes continuing to learn. 

You should expect to be learning every day this term and next term. Schools will help you to do this while they are closed, even if you are not attending.

There is another important role for you to play.  While the science tells us that Coronavirus does not affect most children and young people as much as it does adults, you can still get it and pass it on to other people who are more at risk - including other children and young people and possibly members of your own family. 

That is why it is really important that you follow the advice your school, doctors and the Government is giving you about what you can do and where you can go while you are at home. This is so you can do your bit to protect older people and children and adults with health conditions. 

We both visit schools in Hackney regularly, and every time we see the brilliant example our children and young people set. This will be a challenging year, and we know that it will be an anxious time for many, but the whole of Hackney is proud of you. 

We want to take this opportunity to thank you for all you are going to do to help and we look forward to seeing you very soon.