Top primary school among a number in Oldham that remain closed

A Saddleworth primary school which claimed top nationwide recognition is closed today (Monday), except for key workers and vulnerable children.

The majority of teachers at Holy Trinity CE primary school have followed NEU union advice that it was not safe not to return to work if the school is in a Tier 4 area.

Mills Hill primary school in Chadderton has also said it will be closed 'due to a lack of available staff and the resultant health and safety issues that this creates', a message to parents said, while the doors at St Mary’s CE High Crompton Primary and Knowsley Junior School are also closed today.

A letter from Holy Trinity head teacher Liz Travis to parents and carers, sent yesterday (Sunday), said: “I have risk assessed the return of all pupils and decided it is not safe to do so due to the lack of staff to ensure the well-being and safety of our children. 

“The school will therefore only be open to key worker children and vulnerable children only.

“Unfortunately, we will not be able to operate before and after school club for any children (including children who normally attend Squirrels) for the first week.

"We will review this and update parents as soon as possible.

“During this period, the teaching staff will be offering the same provision as in a bubble closure.”

She went on: “Children of key workers and vulnerable children who are accessing school will follow the same work set by class teachers.

"They will be monitored and supported in class by our teaching assistants. 

“For parents and carers who wish to contact the school during this period, the office will be open.

"Please email or telephone with any issues and we will respond as soon as possible.

"Please accept my apologies for the lateness of this information.

"The decision was made by the NEU on Saturday afternoon and we have responded to the announcement as quickly as possible. We will keep you informed.”

The school recently featured in The Times top 250 primary school list securing 57th place.

It is the third year running they have featured in the list.

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