A group of 32 pupils are self isolating after a year ten student tested positive for Covid-19.

The result was swiftly picked up at The King John School in Thundersley, thanks to their lateral flow testing system.

The positive case has meant that 32 year ten students are now self-isolating as direct contacts, while parents of all students who were identified to self-isolate have been informed.

One staff member also tested positive on Thursday, however there are no close contacts and no one is isolating as a result.

In a letter home to parents on Friday, the school said: "We are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.

"As always, from the moment we were informed of the positive tests, all processes and procedures advised have been enacted.

"This involves following the national guidance and a risk assessment with Public Health England (PHE) advisers.

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"We have classroom seating plans which enable us to quickly identify individuals who have been in direct prolonged contact with a person who has tested positive.

"This enables Essex Track & Trace to advise us on who should self-isolate.

"We are doing everything we can to follow Government guidance and keep our students and staff safe.

"It is imperative that parents who have consented to testing regularly test their children at home in order for us to keep the school community safe."