Coronavirus and school closures

Following the closure of schools in the state and independent sector because of the coronavirus outbreak, HMC Chair and head of Guildford High School Fiona Boulton said:

“This virus knows no boundaries and independent schools are struggling alongside their colleagues in the state sector to keep open for as long as possible.

“This is becoming increasingly difficult as staff are obliged to self-isolate or look after family members, and boarding school pupils with symptoms have to be separated from other children.

“Heads who have had to close their schools have done so with a heavy heart because normal operations have become unsustainable and their pupils are better served by moving to online learning. Some will be able to keep their doors open to key workers, according to their resources.

“Each school will be making these decisions based on safeguarding the welfare and health of children and staff.”