Full closure of Calderdale school after staff member tests positive for covid

Colden Junior and Infant school in Hebden Bridge confirmed the test result.

After discussions with Public Health England and Calderdale Consultant in Public Health the decision has been taken to close the school to all year groups.

In a message on the Friends of Colden School (FoCS) , the school's PTA organisation, head teacher Sarah Hetherington said: "Following confirmation of a positive COVID test result in a staff member, and following subsequent discussion with the Calderdale Consultant in Public Health and Public Health England, we have taken the decision to close the school to all pupils until after the half term break.

"We are advising all pupils to self-isolate for 14 days, with further details to follow by letter.

"This is a precautionary measure, and not a decision we have taken lightly, but is based on advice from Public Health.

"They have advised that pupils do not need to seek a test for COVID, unless they develop any of the three key symptoms -

"A new, continuous cough a high temperature (37.8 degrees Celsius or above) a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell

"I understand that this may be difficult for the children and their families, but the safety of pupils, teaching and support staff is our priority.

"Remote learning will be available via the Google Classroom from tomorrow morning and will be updated daily.

"Parents' evening will be postponed until after half term.

"Once again, apologies for this, but thank you for all the kinds words as I have phoned around with the news.

"Look after yourselves and we look forward to seeing you all back on Tuesday November 3."