Large Derbyshire comprehensive closes as a result of coronavirus

A large comprehensive in Derbyshire is shutting from this morning because of coronavirus, while some large academy trusts appear to be gearing up to pass on news about how the infection might start affecting their schools.

Dronfield Henry Fanshawe school, near Chesterfield, has taken the decision because of a shortage of staff, who are having to self-isolate. The news comes only hours after headteacher unions said some institutions would have to take such action because of employee shortages.

The website of the Ofsted-outstanding school says, under a “Critical Message” dated Monday 16^th March, that the school will be “closed from Tuesday 17^th March until further notice”.

It states: “It is with great regret and sadness that we have taken the decision to close the school until further notice. Following the Government announcement today [Monday] of who should self-isolate or ensure social distance, we have analysed the staffing and concluded that there is a significant number of staff who will not be able to come to our school.

“This means it will not be possible to function safely and securely as a school, nor provide the appropriate provision that is required. We are deeply apologetic for this as we know the inconvenience this will cause.