Abbey Park School will only be open for Years 7 and 11

The secondary school is the latest to partially close due to a large amount of staff self-isolating as a precautionary measure to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Operational principal Jon Young said: "I have arrived at the decision to partially close Abbey Park School on Thursday until further notice. This is due to the high number of staff who are self-isolating due to personal or family vulnerability.

WWith a reduced number of pupils, we will be able to keep the school running safely, as directed by the government.

"We will remain open to year groups 7 and 11 - Year 7 because they are the youngest members of our school community, and Year 11 due to GCSE examinations.

"For those pupils not in school, we will begin to set work to complete at home. The work set for Year 10 will follow the timetable for each subject. For Years 8 and 9, a piece will be set for each subject each week.

"During this time, we ask you follow the government guidance to reduce the risk to vulnerable pupils or vulnerable members of their family they live with.

"We ask that any child with symptoms of, a temperature or persistent cough is kept off school. If pupils report or show any of these symptoms during the school day we will arrange for parents to come and collect them.

"As promised, during a partial closure we will give parents who work in key public service jobs (emergency services, teaching, NHS) the opportunity to send their children in regardless of their year group.

"I would like to thank you for your support of the school through this adverse time and I can guarantee you will continue to receive regular updates from the school.

"Advice on pupils working at home, safeguarding and welfare during any closure of the school, will follow. Like me, I am sure you will be glad when we emerge on the other side of this crisis and return to a normal way of life."