Kent’s largest secondary school will not let pupils in Years 11 and 13 in today because it fears that pupils who are away self-isolating will return to say goodbye to their friends.

Homewood School in Tenterden told parents earlier this evening via text about its decision not to admit GCSE and A-level students.

The 11th hour announcement dismayed pupils who would have been taking GCSEs and A levels. For some, it would have been their last day.

It means they will not now be able to say goodbye to their classmates or their teachers as they planned.

In a text to parents, the school said: “It has been brought to our attention that some students in both Years 11 and 13 who should be self-isolating at home are intending to come into school tomorrow. However, we must ensure that any risk to the health of others is kept to the absolute minimum at this time of great vulnerability.

“We have therefore taken the difficult decision to close the school to all Year 11 and Year 13 students tomorrow. Whilst we are aware that this may cause further upset, please be assured that we will endeavour to find an opportunity at a later date to invite the students back to school in order for them to celebrate their time together at Homewood.”

The school will however is open for children in other years.

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