An Ayrshire school has moved to remote learning for selected year groups.
Loudoun Academy's acting head teacher made the announcement today that a significant increase in Covid and non-Covid absences among staff left him with "no alternative".
Bruce Hendry told parents that the school will be open for all year groups tomorrow but S1 pupils will work from home on Wednesday, S2 students will work remotely on Thursday and S3 pupils will be out of the classroom on Friday.
The acting head teacher, who took over temporarily from Scott Robertson last week said he hoped that the move would buy the school time to hopefully reopen as normal on Monday.
Mr Hendry said in a letter to parents: "I hope this letter finds you and your families well, I had hoped to be able to send a more positive update following my first week in the acting head teacher post but, unfortunately, there has been a significant increase in Covid and non-Covid related absence among staff over the last week.
"The Covid absences reflect rising case numbers across East Ayrshire and beyond.
"Therefore, in consultation and agreement with the chief education officer, we have taken the decision to move to remote learning for selected year groups.
"Please know that this decision was not taken lightly and that we have no alternative in the circumstances. We have taken this decision now in order to qive as much advance notice to parents and carers as possible.
"By calling in all available supply staff we have been able to delay the implementation of this until Wednesday, March 16.
"We are hopeful that staffing levels will improve in readiness for week beginning March 21 and further updates will follow through this week.
"Any decision about next week will be communicated before the weekend."
East Ayrshire Council have been contacted for comment.
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