Coronavirus restrictions force Welbourn's Sir William Robertson Academy to close until after Easter

Sir William Robertson Academy in Welbourn has announced that it will be closing from tomorrow (Thursday) because of the ongoing coronavirus situation
Sir William Robertson Academy closing until after Easter.Sir William Robertson Academy closing until after Easter.
Sir William Robertson Academy closing until after Easter.

In a letter to parents, headteacher Mark Guest said this afternoon: "I regret to inform all families that we have had to take the difficult decision to fully close Sir William Robertson Academy for all year groups from the end of school today until Monday April 20 (the date on which the school is scheduled to return from the Easter holidays).

"The decision to close has been taken extremely reluctantly, but in the light of significantly reducing staffing levels as a consequence of many staff following individual medical advice to self-isolate during the current coronavirus global pandemic.

"We have carried out a risk assessment today, and we are not in a position to guarantee safe staffing levels for our pupils from tomorrow onwards. Should the planned date on which the school can re-open change – given the dynamic nature of the current situation and the developing advice from the Government - we shall alert all families through our website, social media and through text message."

Mr Guest said all departments and teachers have provided work for classes so that pupils can continue their learning remotely at home.

He added: "Your support with this is greatly appreciated. Pupils should use their usual log-in for Show My Homework to access these resources which staff will endeavour to update for the duration of our enforced closure.

"At present there is no guidance from Government with regard to what will happen with the forthcoming examination season for GCSE and A Levels. My advice would be that our students in Years 10, 11 and 13 should continue preparing for these exams in the usual way, revising all of the key areas as identified by their teachers. Exams are still planned to take place on the dates identified on their individual exam timetables."

He said that these were "clearly unprecedented times" and paid tribute to all staff who have worked so hard to keep the school open and functioning normally up to this point.

Mr Guest concluded on an upbeat note: "I look forward to welcoming our pupils back to school after the Easter break – this school is nothing without their laughter, their kindness to others and their boundless enthusiasm and spirit. To all families, please stay safe in these uncertain and worrying times. Your health and well-being has to be the number one priority and my thoughts and good wishes (and those of all of the school’s staff) are with you all."

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