Three year groups at Salisbury school self isolating after pupil tests positive for Covid-19
Initially no students were told to quarantine at St Joseph's but advice has now changed
Last updated 28th Nov 2020
Yesterday (Thursday 26th Nov) parents of Year 9 students were sent a letter confirming a positive coronavirus case within the year group.
The school says information regarding the timeline, testing and results and school attendance was sent to the Public Health Tracing who analysed the information and decided no action was needed.
Following further clarification from Public Health England, ALL pupils within the Upper School bubble (Years 9, 10 and 11) must now self isolate until 3rd of December.
The students cannot return until Friday 4th of December.
Rachel Ridley, Headteacher at St Joseph’s Catholic School said:
“We are grateful to the parents for their understanding and support as we know this will cause disruption for these families. The safety of everyone within our school community is our most important consideration and we will continue to work with Wiltshire Council and Public Health England to ensure this is managed closely so that the rest of the school can continue. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on 4 December.”
Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health for Wiltshire, said:
“This precautionary action is very important so we can keep the risk of any transmission within the school community as low as possible. We will continue to support the school so their high standard of COVID-19 measures are maintained.
“It is a legal requirement that anyone asked to self-isolate should follow the government information on this and stay at home. If they don’t have symptoms, they do not need to get a test. However, if a member of their household has symptoms and takes a test then they should self-isolate. "
“We ask that people regularly wash hands, maintain social distancing and wear face coverings where appropriate – this is the best way to keep you and everyone safe as much as possible.”
The school has apologised for any confusion.
"As you know from previous and current bubbles being sent home, we take all guidance seriously and follow all actions to the letter. However, the guidance from PHTracing can only be as accurate as the information we are given and confirm. "
"We can only apologise for any worry, upset or frustration this change in circumstances has caused and would ask that any concerns or worries are directed to our dedicated support email of covid@sjcs.org.uk__."
"We remain completely committed to supporting the health and well-being entire St Joseph’s community at all times."