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A STAFF member at a Derby infant school has tested positive for coronavirus – putting back the school reopening.
The staff member at Cavendish Close Infant School in Chaddesden was last working all day in school on Friday, May 22, with no symptoms – but became unwell the following day.
Acting head Chrissy Diffin said a positive test result was confirmed on Tuesday, May 26.
She said: “The following day, we consulted thoroughly with Public Health England (PHE) and Derby City Council.
All staff and children who were in school on Friday, May 22, have been advised by PHE to self-isolate for 14 days.
“Other household members of staff and children who were in school on Friday, May 22, do not need to self-isolate unless the staff member or child they live with develops symptoms.
“As key members of the school’s senior leadership team and site team are also self-isolating, we will not be able to safely open school during next week, as planned.
“This decision has been taken in partnership with the city council.”
Deep cleaning is planned at the 253-pupil school on Monday, June 8 and Mrs Diffin said the school is working towards Wednesday, June 10 as the date it can reopen to some children.
“It also has a nursery depart
ment and was completely rebuilt in 2019.
Mrs Diffin said: “We will keep our parents and carers informed about the planned return date. We all wish the staff member a speedy recovery.
“This is a worrying time and anyone in our school community who develops coronavirus symptoms should access a test.
“We must all be alert to the symptoms and respond promptly. We will continue to provide remote learning for children and support via phone calls and email contact.
“We are extremely grateful to our parents and carers for their support and understanding. The safety of our school community is paramount.”
The city council confirmed that he authority had been notified about the situation and Jo Ward, council head of service, standards and performance, said: “The head teacher contacted us as soon as she was made aware of the member
Infant School
of staff’s illness. She has also consulted public health and has acted on the advice provided with an emphasis on the safety of children, staff and their families.”
The Government has said that it would like to see the return of reception, year one and year six pupils from Monday. Children of key workers and vulnerable pupils have been able to access classes throughout the closure which began on March 23.
But many schools are finding it difficult to admit additional children next week using social distancing rules. Derby City Council said it is up to parents to decided whether to send pupils or not.
Meanwhile, schools run by Derbyshire County Council will not start returning until at least the week beginning June 8.
Teaching unions, both locally and nationally, have said they have concerns about the rush to reopen schools across the country.