Fifteen teachers are self-isolating following a Covid-19 outbreak at a secondary school in Limerick.
As reported by the Irish Times, six teachers tested positive for coronavirus since last weekend. This has led to a further nine teachers being deemed close contacts and having to self-isolate for 14 days too.
As a precautionary measure, all of the school’s remaining staff have been tested for COVID-19 and the results were negative.
No students cases have been found but as an extra precaution, all transition year students and a small number of students from other years that were identified as close contacts have also been asked to self-isolate.
The school’s principal confirmed the outbreak but requested the school's name to remain anonymous in order to protect the privacy of staff members.
The absence of 15 teachers will impact the rest of the students in different years though, with some pupils asked to stay at home. They will be taught remotely next week.
However, most classes will go ahead as planned and it is envisaged that all Christmas exams will continue as scheduled.
Substitute teachers are also being used to help fill the teaching void, while student teachers on college placements are also being used.
As for the remaining staff, it's reported that they're putting in additional work hours to as they cover for their colleagues.
The principal added that no students would be disadvantaged due to the absent teachers.
