Coronavirus: Northern Ireland school takes decision to close doors for 'safety of children and staff'

A Northern Ireland Primary School has announced this morning that it will remain closed next week, amid fears for safety of children and staff.

Lurgan Model posted the statement on their social media page on Saturday, asking parents for their continued support during what is a "difficult time."

They said: "The situation facing us with the current global spread of COVID-19 is unprecedented. Our situation here, on this part of the island of Ireland is further complicated by the fact that we have a government that can’t agree and act as one; and whilst I understand the science behind the current strategy, I also don’t want anyone from our school community to become a statistic.

"All of the staff and governors of this school care deeply about the children, families and community we serve. All of the staff recognise the responsibility we collectively have for the little people who come through our doors everyday.

"In the current crisis, we also have a responsibility to the families and vulnerable relatives of our pupils. We also have a responsibility for our own families.

"Our current holiday schedule means we are closed until Wednesday regardless. We had planned two days holiday and an exceptional closure for the end of May.

"After much thought and in consultation with the Chairperson of the Board of Governors, I have decided to move these days from May to this incoming week."

Lurgan Model will now be closed for pupils from Monday March 16 to Friday March 20 and will not officially reopen for pupils until Monday 23rd March.

However, the school says it will be monitoring the situation over the course of the incoming week.

"We will monitor the situation during the course of this incoming week and communicate with parents as information becomes available," the statement continued.

"On Thursday 12th March I asked staff to consider ways we can support learning from home, should a long term school closure be announced by government. Again, we will communicate this with parents when the need arises.

"This decision wasn’t an easy one to make, but my primary professional responsibility is for the safety of your children and my staff. I also have a moral responsibility to consider the safety of the vulnerable people each of us has in our own families.

"I hope I can rely on your continued support during these difficult times."