Coronavirus: Falkirk district schools will close from next week

Education across the district is coming to a halt this week as Forth Valley College has already closed and the schools are preparing to shut from the end of the week.
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Amid days of speculation nationwide about school closures, it was confirmed today that all Falkirk Council schools and nurseries will be closed from this Friday.First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement saying schools have now lost too many staff to continue as normal.And it is not yet known for how long they will remain closed.Robert Naylor, Falkirk’s director of children’s services, said: “Following the First Minister’s statement in relation to Covid-19 all schools and educational establishments will be closed to pupils from Monday, March 23.

“We will provide an update when we receive further information from the Scottish Government.”

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The news about schools and nurseries follows the closure of Forth Valley College which closed its doors to students and staff on Tuesday afternoon for “enhanced cleaning” after a student tested positive for Covid-19. They are currently self-isolating at home.A spokesperson for the college said it was “a precautionary measure in order to safeguard our staff and students”.On Monday, when there were no known cases identified at Forth Valley College, it had been announced teaching would stop from close of play on Friday.However, following a student’s positive test result, the new decision was taken to close on Tuesday.The college spokesperson added: “We would also like to note that bursary payments and childcare funding will be paid as normal and that no student will be financially disadvantaged during the closure.“We realise that this is a worrying time and understand there are many concerns, however staff, students and the general public, should be assured that we are doing all we can to minimise the impact of this unprecedented situation. “We will continue to take advice from the local health protection team and the Scottish Government and will issue further updates in due course.“The safety of our staff and students is a top priority and we appreciate your ongoing support and understanding during this challenging period.”Parents and carers can keep up to date with all the latest information on council services, including schools, by visiting the council’s website at www.falkirk.gov.uk