STUDENTS in two separate years groups at a school in Clacton have been told to self-isolate after a staff member tested positive for coronavirus.

Bosses at Ravens Academy, in Nayland Drive, in Clacton, have informed the parents of certain Year 3 and Year 4 students that a teacher at the school has been infected with Covid-19.

As a result, some pupils and staff members, who potentially came into contact with the individual who tested positive, have now been asked to remain at home for two weeks.

All other students, however, are required to continue attending school, unless they, too, start displaying any virus symptoms, such as a high temperature or persistent cough.

Parents were initially informed of the somewhat worrying news on Wednesday when a letter was sent out by headteacher Valerie Rose and published online.

The note mentioned the school having two positive cases, but it currently unknown whether the second positive test was taken by a staff member, student, or parent.

"We have been made aware of two members of our childcare setting community who have tested positive for Covid-19," the letter read.

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

"This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child.

"Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus will be a mild illness.

"The small number of children who have been in direct prolonged contact with the individuals who have tested positive for Covid-19 have been contacted directly and will be staying at home for 14 days."

At primary schools, each classroom is considered to be a 'bubble', as opposed to at high schools, where an entire year group can be classed as a 'bubble'.

A spokesman for Ravens Academy has, therefore, since confirmed that only "some pupils and staff” in the impacted year groups will be expected to quarantine. 

They said: “The health and safety of our pupils and staff is our top priority.

"A member of staff tested positive for Covid-19 at the school so we have followed public health guidance.

"Some pupils and staff in a Year 3 and Year 4 bubble are self-isolating as a precautionary measure.

"These pupils are now accessing remote learning from home, to limit disruption to their education.

“As a result of the many robust safety measures the school has in place, it is safe to remain open to all other pupils.

"We are continuing to work closely with Public Health England and are taking all necessary precautions.”

This is an update on a story published by the Gazette on Thursday evening, in which it was reported that two students had tested positive.

Ravens Academy has told us this is not the case.