Three year groups at Weare Academy First School learning from home after six Covid cases

Three year groups at Weare Academy First School are learning from home following six positive Covid-19 tests.

In a letter to parents and carers on Tuesday (March 16), executive head teacher Denise Mawdsley confirmed there had been four pupils and two members of staff test positive for coronavirus, meaning Years 2, 3 and 4 having to self-isolate at home.

Three Year 4 pupils have returned positive test results along with one Year 2 pupil, a member of staff teaching Years 3 and 4, and a staff member who does not work directly with children.

The letter said: "You will be aware that we have been advised by Public Health that there have been two confirmed cases of Covid-19 at Weare Academy First School; a member of staff teaching our Year 3 and Year 4 classes and a pupil in Year 4.

"We have been informed of a Year 2 pupil and a member of staff (who does not work directly with children) having received a positive lateral flow test.

"In these circumstances we treat the lateral flow test as being a positive case of Covid-19, until we receive confirmation of the PCR test result.

"Further to this we have been informed of two pupils in Year 4 who have tested positive using a lateral flow test, but these students are already self-isolating.

"After consultation with Public Health England we have been advised that our Year 2 pupils must continue to isolate, while we await the result of the PCR test.

"On receiving information on the PCR test, we will provide further guidance. Therefore, Year 2 pupils currently cannot return to school.

"We are concerned about the recent number of cases within our school and realise that this will cause you anxiety.

"We want to reassure you that we will continue to review our risk assessments in the light of these cases and that the school will be thoroughly cleaned, for the safety of our pupils and staff.

"Home learning will be provided for all our pupils required to isolate, as close to the planned curriculum as possible.

"In line with national guidance, our Year 3 and Year 4 pupils must stay at home and self-isolate up to and including Sunday March 21.

"Their first day back at school will be Monday March 22. We are asking you to do this to reduce the further spread of Covid-19 to others in the community.

"If your child is well at the end of the 10 days period of self-isolation, then they can return to usual activities.

"While your child is self-isolating, any siblings may attend school as normal, providing they are not already self-isolating or showing symptoms of Covid-19.

"Other members of your household can continue normal activities provided your child does not develop symptoms within the 10 day self-isolation period.

"May I take this opportunity to thank you again for your support and understanding in these challenging times."

Due to the year groups not being in school, the academy has decided to postpone its Red Nose Day celebrations, that were planned for today (March 19), until April 1.