Newquay school closes early for summer following spike in Covid cases
Tretherras says 27 were called in by families on Monday 19th July and the decision was not taken lightly
Last updated 20th Jul 2021
A school in Cornwall has been forced to close early for the summer because of coronavirus.
Newquay Tretherras says 27 separate confirmed cases were reported by families on Monday 19th July.
As a result of that, over 170 students had to be sent home.
That is on top of the number already self-isolating due to positive cases called in on Friday.
A rising number of staff have tested positive too, meaning classes had to be doubled up.
Bosses confirmed the information in a letter to parents, posted on their website.
They insist the decision was not taken lightly but believe it is in the best injterest of staff and students.
The letter states: "As we have already made arrangements to close at 12.20pm tomorrow (Tuesday), we have taken the decision to CLOSE the school from the end of the day this afternoon (Monday); tomorrow (Tuesday) will therefore be the start of the school summer holiday.
"This decision has not been taken lightly but we believe it is in the best interests of the health and well-being of our staff and students.
"I apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you".
The letter goes on to remind families about the government guidelines on the end of routine contact tracing.
It says: "Those who are identified as a close contact by NTAT (NHS Test and Trace) will be required to self-isolate and will be advised to take a PCR test.
"If your child has a positive PCR test, please continue to notify the school as we will need to report it to Public Health".
Newquay Tretherras Letter