Corby special educational needs school shuts after Covid case

A special educational needs school in Corby has closed for almost two weeks after a member of staff tested positive for Covid-19.

Red Kite Academy in Purbeck Drive say they cannot safely operate because senior leaders are now having to self-isolate.

In a notice to parents yesterday (Wednesday), headteacher Donna Luck said she would close the school "with a heavy heart" in order to keep the school safe.

The notice said: "We have been made aware of a member of our school leadership team who has tested positive for Covid-19 and who has worked directly with the whole school leadership team who have in turn worked across the school and in the main office."

The school has been advised that they can open again from November 24.

Dozens of schools across the county have reported cases of coronavirus since the start of the new academic year.

As of November 1, there were 33 active outbreaks in Northamptonshire schools and colleges according to public health officials.

Red Kite isn't the first school in the north of the county to close because of the virus, with Henry Chichele Primary School in Higham Ferrers shutting five days early before the half-term break last month because of staff needing to self-isolate.

The notice from Ms Luck added: "Class teachers will be in touch with home learning packs and we will continue to support you as best as we can.

"The safety and learning of our school community remains our primary concern.

"Please continue to take care, be vigilant and to follow national guidance."

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