More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Two schools in the Sandwich area have sent their pupils home to self isolate following cases of Covid-19.
More than 250 pupils at Sandwich Technology secondary and 21 children at Ash Cartwright and Kelsey primary are now working remotely.
Head teacher of Sandwich Technology, Tracey Savage, became aware of the positive case involving a Year 8 pupil on November 8 and informed parents via letter the same day.
All 255 people in the year group are now four days into their 14 day self-isolation period and are being taught remotely until they can return on Friday, November 20.
As a precaution, the school says, some members of staff who work within the dedicated Year 8 zone have also been asked to stay at home.
It is the first action of its type that the school has been required to take.
Ms Savage said: "Our actions were fully informed by both the Department for Education and Public Health England.
"Our priority is providing continuity of education whilst safeguarding the health of our school community, which includes not only students and staff, but their families.
"We understand that these are difficult times, but all we can do is follow key Government guidance and continue to do our best for the students.”
Around four miles down the road, towards Canterbury, Ash Cartwright and Kelsey Aided School is also dealing with a case in its Year 3 bubble.
As a result 21 pupils and two members of staff are not attending the school premises until Wednesday, November 25.
Head teacher Fiona Crascall said: "Unfortunately, we have had a confirmed case of Covid-19 within our Year 3 bubble.
"My colleagues and I are following Public Health England (PHE) guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone within the school community.
"Home learning will be provided via our school website and staff will support pupils with their learning remotely.
“The rest of the school remains open with staff and pupils continuing to follow PHE guidance in terms of social distancing, hand washing and cleaning to minimise the spread of the virus and ensure everyone can continue to learn and work in a safe environment.
"I would like to thank my staff, our parents and carers and our pupils for their support and understanding at this difficult time. I am blessed to be part of such a fantastic community."
Sir Roger Manwood's in Sandwich is also understood to have asked its entire sixth form section to self isolate after three pupils tested positive for coronavirus.
Head teacher Lee Hunter has been asked to provide a comment.
