Pupils have been forced to isolate after a member of staff tested positive for coronavirus.

In total, 12 children and nine staff at Five Acre Wood School in Boughton Lane, Maidstone , have been told to isolate after the member of staff in their class and bubble has Covid-19.

They will now have to self isolate for 14 days at home and return after the half-term break.

A letter to parents this morning said: "We are writing to inform you that a member of staff at our Loose site has returned a positive test result for Covid-19 and a class/bubble has been closed.

"We know that you may find this concerning but 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. 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 confirmed case have been contacted by phone and received an individual letter.

'Unfortunately, we have had a confirmed case of Covid-19 within our school community.'

"The school remains open for all other pupils and your child should continue to attend if they remain well and you have not been advised otherwise."

Principal Peggy Murphy added: Principal Peggy Murphy said: “Unfortunately, we have had a confirmed case of Covid-19 within our school community.

"My colleagues and I are following Public Health England guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of all our pupils and staff and as a result 12 pupils from one class and nine members of staff will be self-isolating at home until Thursday, October 29.

"We are sending work home to those pupils, and staff will support them with their learning remotely.

“The rest of the school remains open with staff and pupils continuing to follow PHE guidance to minimise the spread of the virus and ensure we can all continue to learn and work in a safe environment.

“I would like to thank the staff, our parents and carers and of course our pupils for their support and understanding at this difficult time.”

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