Dozens of pupils and staff self isolate as Hartlepool school confirms child coronavirus case

West Park Primary School, in Coniscliffe Road, Hartlepool, acted swiftly to contact families and employees after learning of the case before the start of the school day on September 17.

Seventy-two pupils are now self isolating in line with national guidelines with eight staff also remaining at home.

Headteacher Mandy Hall said on September 18: “We were informed yesterday morning at 7am of a confirmed case of Covid-19 within Key Stage 1 (ages five to seven).

“In line with national guidelines, all children (72) within Key Stage 1 must self isolate for 14 days.

"The school acted immediately yesterday and contacted Key Stage 1 parents and carers to prevent their children from turning up at school.

"We also delivered works packs yesterday to all children affected so they can continue their schooling at home during the self-isolating period.

"Eight staff members, including three teachers, three teaching assistants and two dinner supervisors, are also self-isolating for 14 days.

"We have undertaken a deep clean of the areas affected within the school and we will continue to, rigorously following Covid-19 national guidelines to protect our children and staff.

"Parents/carers have been extremely understanding and I would like to thank them for their support.

"Given that the child with Covid-19 had not been in school since September 11, those self-isolating may return to school on September 25.”

A number of other Hartlepool schools, including High Tunstall College of Science and Manor Community Academy, have taken similar action after Covid-19 cases were confirmed.

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