South Yorkshire college closes after three staff test positive for coronavirus

Barnsley College has been forced to close its STEM Centre after a string of staff recorded positive Covid-19 tests.

A statement said: “We have temporarily closed our Sceince, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Centre and Automotive Technologies campuses after three members of staff have tested positive for coronavirus.”

In a full statement, Principal and Chief Executive, Yiannis Koursis said: “The campuses on Old Mill Lane closed on Thursday 10 September 2020, and staff and students were notified.

“The College acted quickly and moved delivery online, closing these two buildings to ensure the safety of all students and staff.

"A full review was undertaken including the precautions and appropriate measures that were in place prior to and following the staff disclosure. Barnsley Council and Public Health England were consulted and the College is working with Public Health England on the measures being taken.

Mr Koursis added: “We sought advice from Public Health England immediately and took all appropriate actions.

“I want to reassure all students, parents and staff that our College campuses continue to meet the Covid-secure measures and remain open.

"Anyone who has symptoms should not attend College and should be tested as soon as possible.

“Thank you to everyone for their continued support in keeping our College community safe.”

A number of schools across Barnsley and South Yorkshire have been forced to close or send home pupils because of positive coronavirus tests.