Coronavirus: Hereford school year group told to self-isolate

The Bishop of Hereford's Bluecoat School said in a letter to parents that although it was just one pupil in year 8, it couldn't identify their close-contacts.

It means all pupils in year 8 have to self-isolate for 14 days, the letter from headteacher Martin Henton added.

In a second letter, Mr Henton added a member of staff had also tested positive.

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Mr Henton said: "Although we can identify the students who have been in close contact with the individual who has tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) in subject lessons, it is not possible to identify which close contacts have been made in the year 8 group bubble zone at the beginning of the day or at morning and lunch breaks during the infectious period.

"After contacting Public Health England, in line with their guidance for close contact we have taken the decision that all students in year 8 will need to self-isolate for 14 days.

"The start day for this is from the day that the year 8 student who tested positive took their test on Thursday, November 5. It is essential that the self-isolation includes this weekend.

"Students who have not experienced symptoms during this period will be safe to return to school on Friday, November 20.

"Students must make sure that they follow the instructions for accessing virtual learning from Monday, November 10 which will be attached separately."

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He added in the letter that for most people, coronavirus will be a mild illness and the school reacted as quickly as it could.

"We have been made aware of a member of our school community in year 8 who following a Covid test on Thursday, November 5 received a positive result back yesterday on Friday, November 6," he added.

"Following picking up the notification this morning on Saturday, we have worked as swiftly as possible with Public Health England to notify of our course of action.

"We know that you may find this concerning but we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England."

In a second letter, Mr Henton confirmed a member of staff had also tested positive for Covid-19.

"There are a very small number of staff who have been in close contact with the person who has tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19)," the letter added.

"They have received a letter informing them that they must stay at home for 14 days. The member of staff has not been in any lessons and not been in close contact with students.

"When in communal areas of the school they have worn a face visor at all times."