Coronavirus: Doncaster school to stay shut for second day as head issues update

A Doncaster primary school is to stay shut today as a deep clean continues after a staff member began displaying symptoms of COVID-19.
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Armthorpe Southfield Primary School was also closed yesterday – but is expected to reopen to pupils tomorrow.

Head Nicola Worthington said: “We are happy to report that the staff member concerned is improving.

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“This is still an unconfirmed case and the helpline has informed the staff member in question that individual testing will not be done unless hospitalised.

Armthorpe Southfield Primary SchoolArmthorpe Southfield Primary School
Armthorpe Southfield Primary School

“This decision is frustrating but entirely out of school hands.

“The Government advice is not to close schools but the Trust felt it necessary to close and deep clean.

“School have gone above and beyond national guidance ready to open its doors on Wednesday morning.

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Staff and pupils have been told to stay at home if they are unwell with a new, continuous cough or a high temperature to avoid spreading infection to others.

Added Mrs Worthington: “We have a timetable to provide frequent handwashing breaks which are supervised by staff and built into the day.

“Current advice remains in place: ‘No education or children’s social care setting should close in response to a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case unless advised to do so by Public Health England.’

She said the school will reopen to pupils at 8.40am tomorrow.

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There have been no confirmed cases of coronavirus in Doncaster, although some media outlets have reported two cases, Doncaster Council’s website says there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the borough.

“Once again I thank you for your understanding in these highly unusual times.”

It is the latest in a number of schools in Doncaster to be affected by coronavius.

Last week, year one pupils at West Road Primary Academy in Moorends were sent home after a member of staff came into contact with a confirmed coronavirus case.

After February half term, pupils at four Doncaster secondary schools were also subjected to coronavirus testing and advice after returning from trips to Northern Italy.