A secondary school in Sidcup has been forced into partial closure after several teachers took to self-isolation after displaying symptoms of coronavirus.

Teachers at Cleeve Park School have been told to follow government guidelines and to self-isolate, which has unfortunately lead to a teacher shortage.

The school has now been deemed as 'unsafe' after failing to meet the teacher to pupil ratio.

As of today (March 17) the school has gone into partial closure until the end of the week, March 20.

The school will remain open to years 7, 8, 11 and 13 and parents have been ensured of minimal disruption.

One parent has praised Cleeve Park School for their decision and said:

“The school are allowing in as many children as they can especially year elevens who are set to take their GCSE’s.

“The office staff have been really helpful during what is a stressful time for everybody.”

A statement issued by the headteacher said:

"We still have no confirmed cases of Coronavirus.

"However, following the recent guidance we now have a number of staff self-isolating.

“We do not have enough staff to safely manage the school for all students.

“As a consequence, reluctantly, we have decided to partially close the school.

“We fully appreciate the disruption this may cause to families but have no choice in these exceptional circumstances.

“Parents should also be aware that to maintain a safe and orderly school, your child may not be taught by their usual teacher or follow their normal curriculum.

“All Year 9 and 10 students working from home can access the appropriate work online.

“Year 12 students will receive an email from their teachers informing them of the work they need to complete.

“We, of course, remain extra vigilant and are encouraging students, parents and staff to continue taking additional precautions."

The school has advised students who are having trouble accessing their work to contact enquiries@cleevepark-tkat.org.

To keep up to date visit at https://www.cleevepark-tkat.org/attending-cleeve-park-school/school-closure/.