A TEACHER at a Colchester secondary school has tested positive for coronavirus.

Philip Morant announced the news in an email sent out to parents on Tuesday, but said it would remain open as normal at the moment.

No students have been sent home as a result and the school is following guidance from the Department of Education.

The letter reads: "We have been made aware of a member of staff at Philip Morant School and College who has tested positive for Covid-19.

"We know that you will find this concerning and we are continuing to monitor the situation and have followed the advice given to us by the Department of Education.

"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."

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The member of staff will not return to school until after their ten day isolation period is up.

The letter continues: "There has not been close contact between the member of staff and students as defined by the Department of Education.

"The way our risk assessment requires staff to operate means there should not be any close contact between staff and students at any time.

"The onset of symptoms was over the weekend so we only have one day to account for when the member of staff was in school.

"The school and college remain open and your child should continue to attend if they are well."