Northern Ireland

Staggered return to school for Strabane Holy Cross students

Holy Cross students will return to school following three Covid cases
Holy Cross students will return to school following three Covid cases Holy Cross students will return to school following three Covid cases

STRABANE’S Holy Cross College has organised a staggered return to school for students following three Covid-19 cases.

Principal Clare Bradley instructed students to remain at home following a third positive test as the school was about to open on Wednesday morning.

It followed two cases last weekend.

Mrs Bradley said the decision to close was taken to allow time for college management to liaise with the Public Health Agency.

Students were subsequently informed that teaching would take place remotely yesterday, with a phased return today and next Tuesday.

The school said: “On Friday 25th September, all KS 4 (key stage 4) and 5 students should attend, except for those self-isolating. KS3 students should remain at home working via Google Classroom.

“Monday 28th September is a staff training day. Pupils should not attend. On Tuesday 29th September, all students should return to the building (except for those self-isolating). Thank you for your support and co-operation at this very difficult time.”

Holy Cross College was one of two Northern Ireland schools to close on Wednesday following positive coronavirus tests.

Malone College in Belfast also closed for a deep clean as a precautionary measure after a member of the teaching staff tested positive.

Malone was due to re-open for all pupils this morning.