School set to remain closed for rest of week due to false widow spider infestation
False widow spider infestations have closed several schools in Newham. Pic: The Natural History Museum - Credit: The Natural History Museum / Tru
The headteacher of an all-through school has confirmed it will be shut for the rest of the week following an infestation of false widow spiders.
Schoool 21 had been shut yesterday (Monday) and today (Tuesday) while the building was treated, but headteacher Oli de Botton has now said it will remain shut for the next three days as well.
In a letter to parents, he wrote: “Whilst the majority of the spiders have been removed, a second treatment is required to ensure all the eggs are dealt with. It is also true that any remaining spiders will be more agitated.
“This decision has been extremely hard to make.
“I was very keen to keep the school open so we could provide students with education this week.
You may also want to watch:
“However, I had to balance that with the need to follow the advice of experts in this matter.”
Work will be provided online for pupils in all year groups to complete at home while the Stratford school is closed.
Most Read
- 1 Police officer jailed for GBH after injuring man in Forest Gate
- 2 Body found in search for missing Newham man
- 3 Election candidate slams plans for Durning Hall in Forest Gate
- 4 Newham schoolchildren enjoy holiday activities as part of programme pilot
- 5 Hundreds of customers descend on reopened retailers
- 6 Newham pubs and bars reopening for outdoor service
- 7 Jailed: Newham men who raped and robbed women in Hackney home
- 8 Tributes to 'hero' charity founder who dedicated life to Newham children
- 9 Newham men who bought BMW M5 in £112,000 fraud sentenced
- 10 Stratford was busiest station on TfL network last year, data reveals
A museum trip has been organised for Year 5 pupils, while those in Year 11 and 13 will be given some off-site teaching.
School 21 is set to open as normal after half term on Monday, October 29.
