Corby school faces partial closure over coronavirus isolation absences

Four year groups at Kingswood Secondary Academy will have to stay at home from tomorrow because so many staff have been forced to self-isolate themselves to try to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Michelle Newman, headteacher at the Gainsborough Road school, sent a letter to parents tonight (Tuesday, March 17) to tell them that the school had to put the health and safety of pupils first.

Her letter followed a government announcement on Monday (March 16) that all families must isolate themselves for 14 days if anyone in their household had a continuous cough or a fever. This has led to many people having to isolate if their children have been poorly, even if they are not showing symptoms themselves.

She said there are no confirmed cases of the virus in the academy but that years eight, nine, ten and 12 must not come to school tomorrow. All other pupils are expected in as usual.

In other schools nationally where the same action has been taken today, these years have been chosen because year seven pupils might not be old enough to stay home alone - while years 11 and 13 have GCSEs and a-level exams in the next few weeks.

Ms Newman’s letter said: “As you know, we have been closely following all government guidance relating to the virus. We have also taken all the necessary precautions since the national outbreak to prevent it from impacting our academy and to keep pupils safe.

“There are no confirmed cases of any student or member of staff at the academy contracting Covid-19.

“Whilst the Government has not announced the widespread closure of schools, unfortunately the cumulative impact of the current measures has led to significant levels of staff absence.

“Therefore, regrettably I have to inform you that we will be closing the academy to years 8, 9, 10 and 12 only from Wednesday, March 18, until further notice.

“This means that pupils in years 7, 11, and 13 are still required to attend lessons as normal until further notice.”

Ms Newman added that parents will be given daily updates.

She said: “Whilst we understand that this is likely to cause disruption for you and your family, we have robust plans in place so that your child can continue their education during this time.

“As always, we are committed to ensuring that our pupils receive the best possible education and will be working hard to minimise the impact of the closure on your child’s education.

”I would like to take this opportunity to thank you wholeheartedly for your understanding and ongoing support in helping us to manage this unprecedented situation.”

This afternoon it was announced that a coronavirus patient to died at Kettering General Hosptial.