Four primary schools close bubbles after coronavirus cases confirmed

Barugh Green, Athersley South and Wellgate Primary schools have all closed bubbles, along with St Michaels and All Angels.

Pupils returning to school following the coronavirus lockdown are expected to stick to "bubbles", or small groups of pupils, throughout the day to minimise contact between youngsters and curb the spread of the virus.

When a positive case is confirmed, those in the bubble will be asked to stay at home for two weeks.

At Athersely Sout Primary School, 57 children and four staff in the impacted bubble will not return to school until September 17 - 14 days after the child first showed signs of having the virus.

Councillor Margaret Bruff, cabinet spokesperson for children’s services at Barnsley Council said: “Schools are acting quickly and ensuring the safety of pupils and staff in all cases. Parents, carers and staff are being notified immediately and are being kept updated.

“We know that any closures of school bubbles may cause difficulties for some parents and carers, and we would like to thank them for their understanding of the situation.

“We urge parents and carers to follow the advice given to them by official sources such as schools, the council and Public Health England.

“It’s important that if either a child or member of staff is feeling unwell, that they stay at home and let the school know as soon as possible. If they have symptoms of coronavirus, they need to self-isolate immediately and get tested. This also applies if any members of the household is unwell.

“It’s so important that people are being more careful than ever about observing the now-familiar social distancing measures such as handwashing, social distancing, staying at home and self-isolating if symptomatic, and wear face coverings where advised to protect others. These will all help to reduce the transmission of coronavirus in the community.

“Check for the symptoms of coronavirus , along with other key advice at nhs.uk/coronavirus”

When are the schools closed until?

- Barugh Green Primary School: Two bubbles closed September 7-17

- Athersley South Primary School: One bubble closed 7-17

- Wellgate Primary School: One year group bubble closed September 8 -21

- St Michaels and All Angels Primary School: One bubble closed September 8 -21