These are the Chesterfield schools set to close or partially re-open amid coronavirus fears

More primary schools in Chesterfield have joined the calls not to reopen their doors to their pupils after the holidays amid the rise of Covid-19 cases in the area.
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Despite the assurance by the Government that the schools were "safe", teachers in the affected area chose to heed the advice by the education union to resort to remote learning.

Chesterfield, along with the rest of Derbyshire, is currently subjected to Tier 4 restrictions following a surge in positive coronavirus cases in the county.

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Grassmoor Primary School said although the government's instruction is to let the schools stay open, the majority of their teaching staff who are NEU members, have decided to follow the advice of their union.

Children listen to their teacher as they sit in a classroom (Photo credit MARTIN BUREAU/AFP via Getty Images)Children listen to their teacher as they sit in a classroom (Photo credit MARTIN BUREAU/AFP via Getty Images)
Children listen to their teacher as they sit in a classroom (Photo credit MARTIN BUREAU/AFP via Getty Images)

In a newsletter sent to parents on Sunday (January 3), the school said it will now be closed until further notice except for children of key workers as well as vulnerable children.

Holmgate Primary School said they have also decided to only partially reopen the school on a temporary basis over the new Covid-19 variant concerns and the increased transmission rates.

They will however be opening school on Tuesday (January 5) for families of key workers and vulnerable children.

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It said the government body will review the situation on January 14.

Meanwhile Pilsley Primary School said majority of their teaching staff have also decided to follow the union's advice based on concerns around the new Covid variant, transmission rates and the SAGE scientific advice.

"All staff are in agreement that the new procedures would mitigate much of this concern but their position stands until the SAGE review by January 15 when the NEU will provide additional guidance.

"For the vast majority of children, this means that the school will be closed up to and including the 15th January though we will keep you fully informed of any future issues and changes that may arise," it said.

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Ashgate Croft School has also informed all parents and carers that the school will not reopen on Monday (January 4) and will remain closed to all pupils.

Henry Bradley Primary in Brimington will also be not reopening its doors to pupils tomorrow (January 5) as planned.

Earlier, Highfield Hall Primary School in Newbold said it will only open to some children from Tuesday following the Christmas break.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.