'Partial closure' of Ossett school as teachers enter self-isolation

Ossett Academy said that updated guidance from the government had forced a number of teaching staff to self-isolate.

As a result, they have asked Year 10 students to avoid attending school today (Tuesday, March 17). Year 12 students have also been advised that though they are still expected to attend school, independent study may take the place of formal lessons.

For coronavirus updates from across the Wakefield district, visit our live blog hereFor families where parental supervision is an issue, pupils have been asked to register at Kendall Hall.

All other pupils should attend school as usual, and the academy said they would issue further updates through the week.

Principal Samantha Broome said: "Following the recent government guidance following the press conference this evening, I can confirm that whilst the Academy remains open for most students, we will need to implement a partial closure for one year group due to the availability of teaching staff. Given current guidance a proportion of teaching staff are affected and fall within the categories for self-isolation.

"On Tuesday 17th March 2020, year 10 pupils should not attend the academy unless parental supervision represents an issue for families. Where this is the case, I would kindly request that pupils report to Kendall hall to be registered.

"Whilst I appreciate that this decision may present an inconvenience for some families, I am unable to provide sufficient staffing levels to support full supervision of pupils across all year groups. I will continue to update parents across the course of the week as to any further partial closures that may be required.

"Year 12 students should continue to attend the Academy, but should be advised that formal lessons may not take place and in this instance students will be asked to undertake independent personal study in the ILC.

"All other pupils and students should continue to attend the Academy as normal and report to their form as normal at 8.30am.

"Finally, can I kindly request that parents do not attempt to contact the academy for further updates or to request medical advice at this time."