Longridge school partially closes after staff member tests positive for coronavirus

St Cecilia's RC High School in Chapel Hill has taken urgent action after a member of staff confirmed they had tested positive for Covid-19 yesterday morning (September 5).

Head teacher Ivan Catlow said no pupils have been put at an increased risk "due to the risk assessments in place", and 12 members of staff have been advised to self isolate for 14 days.

He added the precautionary measures would have an impact on the running of the school, but the safety of pupils and staff is of "paramount concern".

The school, which reopened to all year groups on Thursday (September 3), will only be open for Years 10 and 11 on Monday (September 7).

Years 7, 8 and 9 will be able to access learning from home and will not be able to return until Thursday, September 17.

Mr Catlow apologised for the "significant disruption" and asked any parents who had any questions or concerns about the temporary closure to get in touch.

Pupils in England returned to schools in September for the new term following six months of closure due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Parents were urged to ensure all children attended when the new term started, with Education Secretary Gavin Williamson warning they risked a "huge dent in their future life chances" if they continued to stay at home.

Attendance at school was made mandatory as a result, with parents facing a potential fine if they kept their children at home.

Local authorities can fine parents £60, which rises to £120 if it is not paid within 21 days.

If the fine is not paid after 28 days, parents could be prosecuted which could lead to a fine of up to £2,500.