Confirmed Covid-19 case at village school near Alford

The confirmed Covid-19 case at St Helena's CE Primary School in Willoughby, near Alford, was confirmed in a public letter to parents at the weekend.

The letter, from head teacher Mrs Belton, states: "There has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 within the school.

"Lincolnshire Health Protection Team, working with the school, have identified that children and staff who are in the Year 3/4 class (Miss Garrill and Mrs Langdale's class) may have been in close contact with the person who tested positive for Covid-19.

"These close contacts are now required to isolate for 14 days from Wednesday 23.09.20.

"We are asking you to do this to reduce the further spread of Covid-19 to others in the community.

"If you child is well at the end of the 14 day period of self-isolation, then they can return to school and other usual activities.

"Other members of your household can continue normal activities provided your child does not develop symptoms within the 14 day self-isolation period."

Mrs Belton's letter added: "This, I am sure, will come as quite a shock to you, as it has to us, and we are aware of the impact this will have on you, but trust that you will understand the importance of following the request by Public Health England.

"We realise that this may be unsettling to the children, but in order to keep everyone safe, we must follow these instructions.

"School protocols have been adhered to, which we hope will have reduced risks across the bubble. This measure is nevertheless important in preventing any spread of the virus further.

"Any siblings of children in Miss Garrill's class are still able to attend school. For pupils who are isolating, we will continue learning online. We'll make contact with you about how this will happen, with a view to supporting you and your child as best we can. If this situation changes, we will let you know accordingly."

This latest Covid-19 case comes after Sutton on Sea Community Primary School reported two positive cases, in addition to a "serious Covid-19 concern" at a secondary school in Alford.