Mansfield primary school closes due to staffing levels amid Covid 19 cases

A Mansfield primary school is closing its doors on the advice of health chiefs due to fears over staffing levels amid Covid 19 cases
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A statement by head teacher James Marshall told parents and friends of St Peter’s CoE Primary Academy School that it would be closing from today, Wednesday, until Monday, November 30.

The school on Bellamy Road, is following advice from Public Health England, the Department of Education and (SNMAT) Southwell and Nottinghamshire Multi-Academy Trust.

St Peter's CoE  Primary Academy SchoolSt Peter's CoE  Primary Academy School
St Peter's CoE Primary Academy School
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The document reads: “Over the past few days, staffing levels have been adversely affected by positive cases in family homes, self isolation incurred through track and trace, and the school kitchen closing.

"The reason for the whole school closing is that there are insufficient numbers of staff remaining on site to operate the school safely, and meet assessments and regulations. We are following the Government advice so that we can reopen the school safely.”

Mr Marshall said the school would endeavour to “remedy the situation as quickly as possible,” but its first priority was the “safety of children, their families and school staff.”

He said: “Further advice from Public Health England states that because we do not have the staffing and resources to meet the risk assessment, the school must be closed.”

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Children will continue to be taught through Google Classroom and the school website. There would also be free school meal vouchers available through the ‘Wonde’ scheme.

Mr Marshall has been working from home after a positive Covid 19 test.

He said:” I can only apologise for any disruption this may cause due to the school being closed and I thank all of you for your continued support during a truly challenging 10 days.”

A mum, with child at the school, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Mr Marshall has done his very best updating parents and keeping the school as safe as possible although he’s tested positive himself for Covid he’s still working from home. They provided me with food for myself and my child when we had to self isolate, I can’t thank the teachers enough.”

Christine Bacon, Chair of Governors, said:

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“Every decision made by the school has been to prioritise safety and well-being. I’d like to thank Mr Marshall and staff for their hard work, care, dedication and commitment during these challenging times.”