Headteacher of Deanery C of E School said cleaning was ‘essential’ for the safe running of the school and with staff off that was ‘not possible’
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More than 400 pupils and staff at a Birmingham school have been told not to come in because a cleaner has Covid-19.
Children from the Deanery Church of England Primary School in Walmley, Sutton Coldfield have been told the school will be closed on Friday (December 4) after a member of the cleaning staff tested positive for the disease.
The school has closed classes and its wrap-around care service the Foxes Club.
In a letter sent to parents and carers, headteacher Jayne Luckett said: “We have been made aware of a member of our school cleaning staff who has tested positive for Covid-19.
“We know that you may find this concerning but we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England.
“This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (Covid-19) will be a mild illness.
“Due to the nature of the role and the close contacts who are required to self-isolate, in line with government guidelines, we are experiencing operational and cleaning difficulties.
“It is essential to the safe running of school that the premises are thoroughly cleaned at the end of the day and at lunchtimes. At the moment, this is not possible. For health and safety reasons I am forced to close the school tomorrow 4 December, 2020. This includes Foxes Club.
“As soon as an alternative cleaning and operational plan is implemented, we will contact you tomorrow regarding the safe return of children and staff."
The headteacher added: “The small number of children who have been in close contact with the individual who has tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) have received a letter informing them that their child must stay at home for 14 days.”