Almost a dozen University of Kent students are self-isolating after two tested positive for Covid-19 following the start of term.

Public Health England confirmed on Wednesday positive tests had been recorded among two people studying at UKC's Canterbury campus.

They are now self-isolating as well as 11 of their close contacts.

Both of the students who have tested positive are in Canterbury campus accommodation.

A major outbreak of the virus was reported at Glasgow University this week where 124 students have tested positive.

In a letter to staff on Wednesday, the Kent university's HR director said: "We have been advised by Public Health England that there have been two confirmed cases of Covid-19 among students on the Canterbury campus.

"Both are being supported in self-isolating and their close contacts have all been contacted.

"We are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England (PHE).

"We understand that this is a worrying time and that you may have questions. We are here to support and advise you.

"We are already looking at the implications of the new measures outlined by the Prime Minister to limit the spread of Covid-19.

"As you will be aware, schools, colleges and universities are continuing to stay open as the education sector is regarded as having an important role in contributing to overall health and wellbeing.

"It is our expectation that Kent, like the rest of the sector and in line with Government expectations, will continue to offer a blended approach to learning though this will be kept under active review."

As well as daily cleaning, classrooms at both the Canterbury and Medway campuses are being deep-cleaned each week.

Yesterday, police urged university students arriving in Kent for Freshers Week to act responsibly.

About 30,000 have been arriving in Canterbury to take up courses at the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University.

Officers and partners from the city council will be carrying out patrols aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour and ensuring current government rules on social distancing are respected.

Concerns had been raised about how the influx of tens of thousands of young people will impact Covid-19 infection rates and Canterbury’s ability to cope with increased demand on testing services.

But university bosses said they were confident the steps they had taken will help minimise the spread of the virus.

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