Some children and staff from specialist Northampton school self-isolating after pupil ‘displays Covid symptoms’

A specialist school in Northampton has had to ask some children and members of staff to self-isolate after a pupil ‘displayed symptoms’ of Covid-19.

Greenfields Specialist School for Communication, in Prentice Court, Eastern District caters for primary and secondary aged children who have special education needs.

The school, which has implemented ‘zones’ so not all pupils mix since reopening, has now had to ask anyone who was in contact with the child who displayed symptoms to self-isolate.

In a letter sent to parents and carers of the children who need to self-isolate, seen by the Chronicle & Echo, the school asked pupils to stay at home unless they receive confirmation of a negative test.

The letter says: “This letter is to inform you that a pupil who attends Greenfields Specialist School for Communication has displayed symptoms for Covid-19.

“This young person is within your child’s school zone. You have been given this letter as your child has had contact with the pupil who has displayed symptoms for Covid-19.

“In line with the national guidance and following advice from Public Health England and the Department for Education, we have been advised that all pupils and staff from within the identified Zone must stay at home and self-isolate until September 22, unless we receive notification of a negative test result.

“We are asking you to do this to reduce the further spread of Covid-19 to others in the community.

“If your child is well at the end of the 14 days period of self-isolation, then they can return to usual activities.

“Other members of your household can continue normal activities provided your child does not develop symptoms within the 14 day self-isolation period.”

Greenfields were contacted for further comment, but did not respond before publication.

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