Coronavirus: Rochdale borough's special schools close

Photo of children in class

Special schools across the borough have announced that they are set to close, in line with recent national advice on Covid-19.

Other schools across Rochdale remain open, but the situation is reportedly being monitored with the Prime Minister set to make a statement at 5pm.

The three schools - Redwood, Springside and Newlands - have each released a statement via social media or their websites.

Redwood School posted: “Due to the increased risk surrounding Covid-19 (coronavirus) and recent government guidance relating to vulnerable groups, including those with learning disabilities, we are advising families of students with complex medical needs not to send their child into school tomorrow.”

Springside School posted: “After consulting with the Local Authority following the latest government advice it is recognised that our learners are at an increased risk of coronavirus; as a result many learners will not be in school tomorrow and no learners will be in school from Thursday 19 March until further notice.”

Newlands School posted: “Wednesday 18 March is our last day in school with pupils for a while.  We do not have a re-opening date due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.  We will, of course, keep you updated with any decisions about this. We will be sending letters out with children at 3.10pm today and updates and extra information will be available online.”

Parents of students are encouraged to regularly monitor their school’s website for updates on the situation.

You can read the last on the coronavirus outbreak here: 

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/news-archives?type=News&searchtype=Phrase&Criteria=coronavirus