Lees primary school to close due to Covid-related staff shortages

St Edwards RC Primary School

A primary school in Lees has announced it is to close its buildings and move to remote learning because of the number of teaching staff absent due to Covid-19.

St Edwards RC Primary School on Rowland Way in Lees is to close its doors from 3.15pm today and continue with remote learning until the end of term on Wednesday 22 December.

The decision has been taken after discussions with school govenors and the local authority.

In a letter to parents, Head teacher Patrick McMahon said there were only 9 classroom-based staff who are able to work, with supply teachers making up the shortfall.  However, he said this situation was "not sustainable until the end of term, especially should any further absence occur."

The school will move to the online Google Classroom platform until the end of term next Wednesday.

Some events planned for the final week, including parties and Christmas dinner are to be rearranged for the new year.

Mr McMahon continued: "This is the last thing that I want to happen and an incredibly difficult decision to take. However, I believe it is the only decision that we can take, to ensure the continuing safety of all within school.

"I want to thank the staff who have covered, adapted and gone above and beyond to keep us open until this point. I also want to thank parents for your continued patience and understanding in what has been, without a doubt, the most challenging week of the pandemic in school. I hope and pray that we return to school well and back to normality in January."

Earlier today, Oldham Sixth Form College confirmed they were to move to online learning, due to staffing issues.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.