Keep up to date with all the latest news happening in school at the moment.

• UKHSA Meningitis

  Tue 17 Mar 2026

  The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that there has been an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in the Canterbury area, with 13 cases identified since Friday 13 March.  Two people have died, and a number of others are seriously ill in hospital.  The outbreak is linked to a social venue, Club Chemistry, in Canterbury.

   

  Some sixth form students may have socialised in Canterbury and may have visited venues in the city in recent weeks.  KCC is in communication with the UKHSA South East Health Protection Team and will act immediately on any advice they provide.

   

  Symptoms to watch for Meningococcal disease can progress very quickly, but it is treatable with antibiotics if caught early.  It is essential that you are aware of the symptoms.  They can appear in any order, may not all be present, and can initially resemble a bad cold, flu, or even a hangover.  The key symptoms include:

  • A high fever

  • A severe or worsening headache

  • A stiff neck

  • Sensitivity to bright light

  • Drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty waking

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Cold hands and feet, limb pain, or pale and mottled skin

  • A rash of red or purple spots or blotches that does not fade when you press a glass against it

   

  The glass test:

  Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the rash. If the spots do not fade and you can still see them through the glass, this may be a sign of meningococcal septicaemia.  Call 999 immediately.  On darker skin, check paler areas such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, inside the eyelids, or the roof of the mouth.

   

  If your child does not have symptoms but you are concerned, you can call NHS 111 for advice.

   

  A message to share with your son or daughter UKHSA advises that if a friend goes to bed feeling unwell, you should check on them regularly.  This is particularly important for young people who may dismiss early symptoms as a hangover or cold. Looking out for each other could save a life.

   

  Further information NHS meningitis symptoms page: www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/symptoms  GOV.UK meningitis guidance:

  www.gov.uk/government/publications/meningitis-signs-and-symptomsposter UKHSA is leading the public health response to this outbreak and is working with the NHS to identify and treat close contacts. If we receive any information that is relevant to Laleham Gap School students or families, we will share it with you immediately.

   

• Headteacher Letter

  Tue 17 Mar 2026

  17 March 2026

  Dear Parents and Carers  

   

  I hope that this letter finds you, your friends and family in good health. 

   

  YR8 Residential Trip

  Our Year 8 students are eagerly looking forward to their upcoming residential trip with PGL at Grosvenor Hall. During the visit, they will have the opportunity to take part in a range of exciting and adventurous activities, including abseiling, climbing, and team-building challenges. Evenings will be filled with campfires and social activities, giving students plenty of time to relax and enjoy time together. We can’t wait to hear all about their adventures when they return!

   

  St Patricks Day

  ☘️ Today all staff and students are invited to wear green to mark St Patrick's day. We continue to appreciate your support in celebrating our national days. This is an important part of us celebrating diversity and understanding identity.

  Tomorrow at 9.00am please join us for our Parent Coffee morning in the Wave Building.  During the session, we will discuss several key topics, including:

  • The mobile phone ban for Year 10 pupils
  • The Education White Paper
  • The designated number consultation

  Mr. Payne will provide a brief update on the LPPA Award and our ongoing fundraising campaigns. In addition, Chloe Henderson, our new Occupational Therapist, will share insights into her work within the school so far. We look forward to seeing you there.

  Please see attached information directly from the Department for Education regarding the school’s white paper. I am happy to discuss any questions that you have regarding this at our coffee morning tomorrow. If you are unable to attend but have questions, please email me at secretary@lgs.kent.sch.uk.

   

  You may have noticed in the Wave carpark we now have a barber bus permanently parked. Our intention is to use this for a small number of secondary phase pupils who have vocational interest in hair and beauty. We are in the process of refurbishing the bus, and I am seeking anyone who has access to kitchen worktops and the skills to install them. I am also looking for people who have skills in vehicle vinyl wraps. If you can help, please contact me at secretary@lgs.kent.sch.uk.

   

  Please do not forget Red Nose Day on Friday. Bring a £1 to wear non-school uniform and/or buy a red nose for £2. Thank you for your support in helping the pupils raise money and awareness for those in need.

   

  Best wishes

  Les Milton

  Headteacher