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Inverness school only open to children with parents who work in essential emergency services due to coronavirus situation


By Ian Duncan

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Charleston Academy.
Charleston Academy.

Charleston Academy in Inverness will only be open to pupils whose parents work for essential emergency services from tomorrow due to the coronavirus situation.

In a letter, which has been sent to all parents and carers today, headteacher Gordon Stewart has outlined steps which are being taken at the school.

He stated events are fast-changing and, while schools have been asked to stay open, a number of staff members are already following government advice and self-isolating.

Pupil attendance is already down to 65 per cent and, because of the current staffing levels, it is no longer possible to continue with the school's usual service.

From tomorrow the school will only be open for children whose parents work for the NHS, the police and other essential emergency services.

The school has been in contact with the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) to advise that some pupils may not have coursework through no fault of their own, with provision to address such situations already in place.

Students who are entitled to free school meals can also attend the academy at 1.15pm for their lunch in the usual way.

Mr Stewart said: "The school will be open for staff and teachers who will be working at supporting pupils digitally at home. We will now focus our efforts on sharing resources on Google Classroom."

The headteacher has apologised for any disruption caused to families and added: "These actions are necessary at this time and we as a school appreciate your ongoing support."

Parents are being reassured that they will be updated with any developments.

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