Rugby Free Secondary School to temporarily shut following spike in coronavirus cases - children to continue learning online

Rugby Free Secondary School is to temporarily shut following a spike in coronavirus cases.

The decision came following advice from Public Health England and meetings between Learning Today Leading Tomorrow Trust (LT2), the headteacher and Senior Leadership Team at Rugby Free Secondary School (RFSS).

A spokesperson explained that the decision comes as increasing numbers of students were asked to self-isolate in the last five days.

The school said lessons will be hosted online to minimise disruption, while the children of key workers and those considered vulnerable learners will continue to attend.

A spokesperson for the school said: "While the decision will come as a huge disappointment to the school community, in discussion, the school was left with no other option following a spike in positive covid-19 cases affecting all year groups and within the staff team.

"Considering the potential impact on the wider school community and to ensure that the school is best able to deliver the highest standard of teaching for all pupils, all lessons will

now be delivered live via MS Teams and our online portal (ClassCharts) during the period of closure.

"Children will be welcomed back as soon as their 14-day self-isolation period is complete and the school will be in touch with parents and carers to ensure clarity relating to

their child’s bubble."

Samirah Roberts, RFSS Headteacher said, “Whilst doing everything in our power to keep the school open, we have been planning for another full closure since the start of the new academic year.

"While there is no substitute for time in school, we believe that the next best thing is to be able to deliver lessons live to all pupils, allowing them to interact with their teachers as they do during normal lessons.

"In addition to our live lessons, pupils can access a range of additional resources via our online portal.”

Brenda Mullen LT2 CEO said: “The school has an effective system for loaning devices to children who do not have a computer at home and we have been allocated a number of

IT devices from the DFE for this type of situation.

"The school will remain open for children of key workers and those considered vulnerable learners, if they are not self-isolating.”

Dave Johnson, Chair of the Trust said: “As a Trust we are in daily contact with RFSS and, sad to say, we had been preparing for this position.

"I would like to extend our best wishes to parents, carers and students who are facing more disruption. I would also like to publicly thank Miss Roberts, the RFSS staff team and all our staff across the trust for their continued fortitude and commitment to the children in our care – it is truly humbling.”