Three members of staff at Wigan school confirmed to have coronavirus

Wigan Council has confirmed that three people working at Hope School and College, in Marus Bridge, have tested positive for the illness.

Two deep cleans have taken place and people who have been in contact with those with the virus have been informed.

But a council spokesman said they had been advised that the school should remain open.

He said: “Three members of staff have been confirmed with Covid-19.

“The school has been in constant dialogue with Public Health England on the best course of action to take who have advised to keep the school open.

“The school has taken measures to ensure the safety of staff with two separate deep cleans and informing anyone who may have come into contact with those who have contracted the virus.”

Hope School and College, located on Kelvin Grove, caters for students aged two to 19 with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities.

Since Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the lockdown in March, the school has remained open but for a “greatly reduced number” of pupils, primarily vulnerable children and the offspring of key workers.

A letter sent to parents at the time said staff were working on a rota basis and class teachers would have weekly contact with those youngsters isolating at home.

Another advised on ways to avoid the virus, such as staff and children wearing clean clothes every day and washing or showering when they return home.

The Wigan Post has been contacted by several people recently raising concerns about the safety of pupils and staff, after the three people became ill.

One source said members of the employees’ families had also contracted coronavirus, though the Post has not been able to confirm this.

Headteacher Sue Lucas was contacted about the situation, but directed the inquiry to the local education authority.

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