The Hundred of Hoo Academy closes after 24 positive Covid cases
Published: 11:04, 23 November 2020
Updated: 15:24, 23 November 2020
A secondary school is the latest to completely shut after it was struck by Covid-19.
The Hundred of Hoo Academy has struggled with low staff numbers after 24 people tested positive in the past seven days.
In a letter addressed to parents on Sunday, principal Carl Guerin-Hassett, said: "Operationally, it has also been a challenging period as we have had to contend with several staff self-isolating at the same time.
"I have consulted with Public Health England, the Local Authority and the Leigh Academies Trust over the weekend as a result of the multiple cases in most year groups and also due to low staff numbers.
"We have now reached a point where a 'circuit break' measure is the only sensible option to ensure our students, staff and the wider community are safeguarded.
"I believe that by fully closing the school for a two-week period, we will significantly reduce the transmission rate and, importantly, staffing levels will have returned close to full capacity."
The school is set to re-open on December 7 and while students take part in remote learning the building will undergo a deep-cleanse.
It has also announced that children who are eligible for free school meals will be able to collect food hampers during the two-week isolation.
Mr Geurin-Hassett continued: "Just as a reminder to all parents/carers, that if your child has been directed to isolate following close contact with a student who has tested positive then you should continue to do this.
"I would also strongly recommend that all students have limited contact with others, including collecting siblings from primary school, to ensure we can contain the spread and protect the community.
"I would like to thank parents and carers for their messages of support over the past few weeks, this has been a very challenging time and your patience and understanding is much appreciated."
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Will Payne