Pupil tests positive for Covid-19, Palm View Primary School extends home-based learning

Home-based learning was extended by another day for pupils at Palm View Primary School as a student had tested positive for Covid-19.

In a memo to parents on April 1, school principal Ming Kum wrote that a Primary 2 pupil had contracted the virus from a family member. The child had not travelled during the March school holidays.

The pupil was well when last in school on March 30, and "remains in high spirits while receiving treatment," she wrote.

Some teachers and pupils who were in close contact with the child have been placed on a two-week leave of absence from April 1.

As a precautionary measure, the school extended home-based learning by a day to conduct a thorough disinfection of its premises.

Mrs Kum also urged all staff and pupils to observe good hygiene practices and to see a doctor immediately if they feel unwell.

"These measures are in place to ensure that our school remains a safe environment for teaching and learning," she said. 

The school will reopen on April 3.

Home-based learning was introduced this week by the Ministry of Education to prepare for a scenario where the Covid-19 outbreak worsens.

Schools will conduct e-learning classes from home once a week — primary school pupils on Wednesdays, secondary school students on Thursdays, and junior colleges and Millennia Institute students on Fridays.

Depending on their levels, the sessions will last between four and six hours.

For the latest updates on the coronavirus, visit here.

lamminlee@asiaone.com