Special support school sees more Covid-19 cases, remains closed

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases linked to an additional support needs school has risen to 27.

Last Tuesday, NHS Tayside’s health protection team was made aware of a single positive case of an adult connected to Kingspark School in Dundee.

On Monday, the health board stated the cluster had now reached 27 – made up of 21 members of staff, two pupils and four community contacts.

A single positive case has been linked to the primary 2A class at St Peter and Paul’s School in the city, whilst another has been linked to Happy Times out-of-school club at Downfield Primary School.

Kingspark School, which was closed last Wednesday for a deep clean, remains shut and all staff and pupils continue to self-isolate as previously advised.

The school remains closed and all staff and pupils continue to self-isolate.

Dr Daniel Chandler said: “Due to the high level of tests undertaken among staff who work at the school, we may see a small rise in the number of positive cases as these results come through.

“The actions and measures that have been put in place will help to prevent any further spread of infection and we hope to see the numbers of positive cases to tail off over the coming days.”

Kingspark School has around 185 pupils aged between five and 18. All of the youngsters have complex additional support needs and many have additional physical disabilities or medical problems.

Paul Clancy, executive director of Dundee City Council’s children and families service, said: “I would like to reassure families that this action is being taken to keep everyone safe.

“This is our paramount concern and we cannot be complacent.”