SCHOOL CLOSURE: The Laureate Academy in Hemel shuts until April 20 due to COVID-19 outbreak

The Laureate Academy in Hemel Hempstead has shut for a month because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The school has said that there has been a fall in pupil attendance and an increase in staff absence this week.

On its website the school, which is part of an academy chain, said: “Future Academies’ highest priority is the wellbeing of its pupils, staff and wider communities.

“We are following the Government and Public Health England’s advice on managing the COVID-19 virus and have been closely monitoring the situation. As such, we have taken the decision to close Laureate Academy today.

“This closure comes as a result of the unprecedented challenges that COVID-19 presents to our communities. This week, student attendance has decreased, alongside an increase in staff absence due to the latest guidance from the Government and Public Health England.

“At present, Laureate Academy will remain closed until Monday, April 20. “