A school in Winterbourne has been forced to close its doors following half its teaching staff showing symptoms of Covid-19.

Elm Park Primary in Winterbourne will now be closed until Monday March 23rd following government guidelines of individuals having to isolate for seven days if they show symptoms of high fever and or a new or persistent cough.

Although no staff have tested positive for coronavirus, a total of seven members of staff including both teachers and teaching assistants have had to self-isolate after reporting symptoms consistent with the illness.

Acting head teacher Mrs Carol Bond wrote to parents to explain the situation, after a parent reported children were turned away at the school gates.

In her letter Mrs Bond wrote: “I am writing to you to update you on the current school closure and the associated reasons for making this decision.

“This morning we were in the situation where 50 per cent of our teaching staff and 33 per cent of our teaching assistants have had to self-isolate due to high temperatures and a persistent cough, as per the current government guidelines.

“Due to this, it was impossible to obtain cover for the classes, meaning that we would not have been able to secure the health and safety pupil to staff ratio.

“In order to ensure the safety of our children, staff and families, I have organised for the school to have a full deep clean. This will take place over the next few days.

"Having sought advice from the local authority and from up-to-date information on the DofE website, the chair of governors and I have made the decision to close the school for the rest of this week.

“This evening, I will be attending a local authority briefing, which is advising all head teachers about next steps for school. Once I have further information, I will update all families.

“I am sure you will join me in wishing all of our staff a speedy recovery and I hope to be able to welcome you all back to school on Monday 23rd March.”