Students in a year group at JCG were told to isolate as a precaution yesterday and today while the contact-tracing process is completed after a pupil tested positive.
And pupils in a double year group bubble at St Michael’s School, along with their siblings, have been told to isolate until contact-tracing is finished following a confirmed case.
The order for siblings to isolate is an extra requirement of the private school and is not Government of Jersey policy.
The announcement comes days after children’s commissioner Deborah McMillan voiced concerns over isolation requirements as the entire sixth form at Victoria College were forced into quarantine following a positive case.
Several other classes at primary and secondary schools have also been told to isolate over recent weeks.
Mrs McMillan said the measures were disrupting the children’s education and affecting their mental health.
In a statement, Education Minister Tracey Vallois said: ‘I would like to thank students, parents and school staff for their patience and understanding during these difficult times.
‘We are aware that the increase in Covid-19 cases has been a challenging time across many secondary schools. I also recognise the particular challenges experienced by students and families who have to isolate.’
She added: ‘The Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills continues to meet regularly with school leaders, unions and representatives from contact tracing and will also be briefing headteachers directly this week.
‘This is to discuss ways in which schools further develop their strategies of year-group bubbles as well as the guidance to parents and students about isolation and testing.
‘My department is constantly reviewing their health and safety frameworks and looking to improve the systems around track and tracing in schools. I would like to reassure students and parents or carers that all the measures put in place are based on medical advice to guarantee the highest form of safety for our school community.’
