Coronavirus: Partial closure confirmed at Chichester High School

Headteacher Jo McKeown said, despite not having a confirmed case of the coronavirus at the school, a number of staff are self-isolating following the recent government guidance.

In a letter to parents, Mrs McKeown added: "As a result, we do not have enough staff to safely manage the school for all pupils. Therefore, reluctantly, I have decided to partially close the school.

"I fully appreciate the disruption this may cause to families but have no choice in these exceptional circumstances.

"Parents and carers should also be aware that in order to maintain a safe and orderly school, your child may not be taught by their usual teacher or follow their normal curriculum."

From Wednesday to Friday this week, only students in Year 7, 10, 11, 13 will attend school together with Y12 and 13 Sports Academy pupils. The school also shared information about online resources so pupils can still work from home.

Mrs McKeown added: "This will be reviewed again at the end of the week and I will be in contact.

"This partial closure will start on Wednesday and is currently planned to last until Friday. You will appreciate that things are changing all the time and we may have to revise this plan at short notice.

"We of course remain extra vigilant and are encouraging pupils, parents and staff to continue taking additional precautions.

"This includes maintaining high levels of personal hygiene, regularly washing hands and following the Catch it, Bin it, Kill it advice when sneezing or coughing.

"As you would expect, we already promote these practices at school and we would appreciate your support in continuing to encourage the same at home."

Parents have been told to use the school's website as their 'first port of call' for updates. Parents worried about symptoms or those of a child are advised by the school to call NHS 111.

The letter continued: "The advice is to not go directly to your GP or other healthcare environments. Please see further information on the Public Health England (PHE) and the National Health Service (NHS) websites.

"Should you require further information please do not hesitate to contact us. My sincere thanks for your understanding and support."

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