"We'll do all we can to try and keep schools open" says Sussex headteacher

A headteacher in Sussex says they will do everything they can to stay open, but health and safety must come first.

Mia Lowney's comments come as cases of the Omicron variant of Coronavirus rise across the country, leading to teachers taking time off work to self isolate and a number of NHS Trusts declaring critical incidents.

The headteacher of Worthing-based St Andrews C of E High School said: "It does mean that some of our students don't have their normal classroom teacher in front of them. But it has pulled together a really good community attitude. Our staff have stepped up and made sure students get the best they possibly can."

"Our staff have stepped up"

There are concerns exams could be at risk for the third year in a row without further measures being implemented.

Mia continued: "I would hope to hear from the government soon as to any other contingency plans being put in place to ensure consistency for all our students. If a young person were to be testing positive during the exam season, what would the alternatives be to ensure they aren't missing out?"

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• omicron
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