East Lothian high school warns pupils 'stay at home' due to Covid staff shortage
An East Lothian high school has warned some pupils not to attend classes today due to staff isolating pending Covid-19 test results.
Ross High School in Tranent sent out a letter to parents last night, detailing that due to insufficient staff, all S4, S5 and S6 pupils will be undertaking home learning today.
The announcement was made due to staff members isolating pending Covid-19 PCR test results and the school not having sufficient cover to teach senior pupils.
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The school, however, remains open to all S1, S2 and S3 pupils who will be attending as normal.
Given the circumstances, it is currently unclear whether the senior pupils will be able to return tomorrow, as staff and parents now face an anxious wait to determine the outcome of multiple Covid tests.
Headteacher, Paul Reynolds, thanked parents for their understanding and remained hopeful that the teachers who are self-isolating will be given and all-clear and return tomorrow.
He said: "I apologise for any convenience this causes but we must follow the isolate & test guidance to keep everyone safe. Thank you for your understanding."
This news comes after Nicola Sturgeon issued an update on Covid-19 statistics and restrictions at Holyrood last week, noting that although the booster jabs for over 60's have seen recent improvements, there is a slight rise in overall cases.
The First Minister also urged 16-17 year-olds to get the second dose of the vaccine, to help prevent outbreaks in schools such as this.
A new strain of the virus, which has been labelled "more infectious than the common Delta variant" is also being investigated by health professionals, following a recent rise in positive cases across the UK.
Surgeon is due to address the country tomorrow and issue further guidance on the possible expansion of Covid-19 certification scheme. Proof of vaccination, which is currently necessary to gain entry into clubs and large-scale events, could be extended to include cinemas, pubs and theatres.
