Coronavirus Blacktown: Six new cases at school, childcare centre

A Blacktown school and childcare have closed their doors after multiple positive tests to COVID-19.

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A school and childcare centre in the Blacktown are the latest to be hit by the coronavirus crisis, with six fresh cases.

Tyndale Christian School in Blacktown is the first school in the region with known COVID-19 cases after two students and a ancillary staff member tested positive to the virus.

The Douglas Rd school remains closed today and tomorrow for cleaning and contract tracing, according to NSW Health.

In a statement from the school, Principal Rebecca Hall said the school was informed of the cases over the weekend.

“Students, their families and school staff have been informed about the infection, and I am working with the NSW Ministry of Health to ensure they receive appropriate advice, and as necessary, medical support,” Ms Hall said.

“This includes identifying and notifying any person who has been in close recent contact with the affected students or staff member.

Two students and a teacher have tested positive to COVID-19 at a Blacktown’s Tyndale Christian School. Picture: Supplied

“This process has begun and we will be notified by the NSW Ministry of Health when this has been completed.

“The school also undertook extensive cleaning processes over the weekend according to guidelines provided by NSW Health.”

Ms Hall said the school was continuing to deliver learning for all students online.

A childcare centre only 5km away from the school also has three confirmed cases of the virus, with two children and a childcare worker coming down with the virus.

NSW Health said all children at the Rose of Sharon Childcare Centre had been deemed close contacts and have been isolated. The centre remains closed in the interim.

Up to 60 children attend the Stephen St centre, aged between six weeks and six years of age.

Meanwhile, the latest data from NSW Health shows cases in Blacktown City continue to rise.

Two children and a staff member at Rose of Sharon Childcare Centre, Blacktown has also contracted coronavirus. Picture: Google

There are now 58 cases in the region, with six of these cases being locally acquired.

These figures represent an increase of 12 in the 24 hours between March 28 and 29.

Across NSW, there are 1918 confirmed cases of coronavirus.

The Blacktown Local Government region is now the seventh highest region in the state for COVID-19 cases, surpassing Ryde and Sutherland Shire.

More details as they come to hand.