School forced to delay opening after outbreak of coronavirus cases linked to holidays abroad

"The school has been informed of a number of positive cases of Covid-19 in the school community"
Sir William Borlase's Grammar School in Marlow
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Imogen Braddick2 September 2020

A school in Buckinghamshire has been forced to delay its opening date following an outbreak of coronavirus cases in the school community.

Millions of pupils in England returned to the classroom on Wednesday after a historic closure of schools during the nationwide lockdown.

But Sir William Borlase's Grammar School in Marlow is now set to open on September 10.

Parents and pupils were told of the decision in a newsletter on Friday after the school said it was informed of a number of Covid-19 cases linked to overseas travel, the Maidenhead Advertiser reports.

Headteacher Kay Mountfield said: "I have asked parents and students to be vigilant in monitoring their health through these last weeks of the holiday and to keep us informed of any quarantine arrangements or concerns.

"As you know, at Borlase, we are very much looking forward to welcoming you all to school in September and have been working hard towards this aim. The school and staff are ready and excited to get started.

"However, in the last 24 hours, the school has been informed of a number of positive cases of Covid-19 in the school community following travels overseas.

"All the organisations, along with our Chair of Governors, support my decision to prioritise safety and delay the opening until Thursday, September 10."

Schools return in England during Coronavirus pandemic

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The school said it had been in contact with Public Health England, the Department for Education and the local council.

Ms Mountfield added: "I would like to emphasise to all students and families the importance of observing the guidelines on social distancing, gathering with others and on isolation as appropriate.

"My apologies to everyone and my thanks for your support."

With coronavirus cases still rising across the country, schools have been instructed to introduce new health and safety measures to protect students and teachers.

Pupils will be grouped into bubbles to reduce the transmission of the virus. In primary schools, an entire class will form a bubble, and in secondary schools entire year groups will form bubbles.

Social distancing rules will not be applied at all times, but older children will be encouraged to keep their distance from their peers where they can.

It is not known exactly how many pupils will return to the classroom, but around 40 per cent of schools prepared to welcome back students for the start of autumn term on Tuesday.

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