Harrogate Grammar School announces partial closure for rest of month amid coronavirus pandemic

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The school, which today has only been open for years 7, 10, 11 and 13, has now released a timetable indicating which years will be in school on which days, as staffing is running lower than usual due to coronavirus self-isolation measures.

It has reinforced that students in years 11 and 13 who are set to take vital exams such as GCSEs and A-Levels will remain in school throughout this period.

A full timetable is available on the school's website.

But it has made it clear that this is subject to change, and parents/carers will be updated through the website, email and twitter if there any changes.

In his letter, headteacher Neil Renton said: "Despite the guidance for schools to be open as normal, we are simply not able to fully and safely staff the school for all year groups. Whilst the situation evolves and as we interpret guidance, we feel that we are in a position to communicate the following provision until Friday 3 April.

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"Our rationale, as explained yesterday, is to ensure provision for examination classes in Year 11 and Year 13 and to also ensure that there is provision in place for our youngest students. We believe that by using a partial closure method and rotating some of the other year groups, we are able to ensure that students still have regular contact with school."

The school has also taken the decision to cancel all 'non-essential' school events and trips, including parents evenings, field trips and charity events.

As of tomorrow, Wednesday, it will be setting work for students who are working from home via its VLE services, Showbie and Homework4. It has urged parents/carers to ensure children complete this work during normal school time so staff can be contacted if there are any issues.

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Mr Renton has reassured people that the school is working in accordance with Government guidelines and both pupils and staff are being encouraged to continue practicing good hygiene measures.