Parents keep kids home as South Yorkshire school with confirmed coronavirus case opens

On Thursday, Monkwood Primary school in Rawmarch, Rotherham confirmed the parent of a pupil had contracted COVID-19 after coming into contact with another confirmed case. The pupil and the rest of the family are self-isolating for 14 days. They have not tested positive for the virus.

Despite the news, some parents said they would still keep their children away from the school.

One parent said: “Well my kids aren't going. There is every possibility other parents or children will have it if the parent and child have been in school until having a positive test.

“Just because everyone else is testing negative doesn't mean it won't change over the coming days or weeks. Everyone's situation is different. Some people are vulnerable and some people just can't afford 2 weeks off on SSP. Plus if I ended up with it my department at work would all have to self isolate and my dad's business would also be affected.

When the news broke yesterday, several parents called for the school to be closed.

Public Health England said any risk to people in Rotherham remains low and they should go about their normal business.

Another commented: “Think it should be closed, they’ve cancelled all college placements. If they are concerned about that then I’m not sending my kids.

“TV crews are going to be there today and schools round about message (sic) is be careful what you say more bothered about how they look than the kids.”