Heckmondwike Grammar School urge pupils to wear face masks

Heckmondwike Grammar School, which teaches 11 to 18-year-olds, has issued a letter to parents following the increase in infections amongst students and staff.

Earlier this week, 10 per cent of the teaching staff was off at the school due to the virus.

Headteacher Peter Roberts insists the need for face coverings is not mandatory at this stage but would encourage the use of them in the building.

Heckmondwike Grammar School

In a letter issued on Tuesday, he said: "As I am sure you are aware, there is a rise in covid nationally and I am writing to you this morning to inform you we are seeing a sharp rise in school of infections in both students and staff. Indeed, today we have just over 10% of teaching staff off school.

"As we approach the end of term, we are as ever, mindful of looking after each other’s health, but perhaps even more so now, as any infection may negatively affect families’ holiday plans. Having had a very difficult 2 years, this would be a very sad situation for those affected.

"Consequently, we are strongly encouraging students and staff to wear a face covering when in the school building and whilst we are not mandating it at this stage, we would really appreciate your support, so as to try to prevent any further escalation in infections, with the potential consequence of further mitigating practices.

"We will continue to operate with all doors and windows open (which is no hardship at the moment), and we will be moving to remote assemblies, so as to avoid large-scale gatherings indoors.

"I’m sure, like us, you are feeling a little jaded by covid, but as a team, we have overcome many obstacles so far, and no doubt, working together, we will continue to do so."