Coronavirus: Special Schools to close in Belfast indefinitely from Monday

Special schools in Belfast are to close indefinitely from Monday because of coronavirus, the BBC is reporting.

Principals said this would allow them to seek clear guidance on the health and safety issues facing their pupils.

The news comes after some principals had previously expressed concerns over the effect of coronavirus on pupils with complex needs.

And a number of other schools in Northern Ireland have also announced short term closures.

In a joint message to parents, Belfast special school principals said their schools would close from Monday.

“This will allow principals to seek clear guidance from the Education Authority (EA) on the considerable health and safety issues concerning the well-being and vulnerability of children with special needs in relation to the COVID-19 virus,” it said.