Kingsbury Green Academy in Calne is taking precautionary measures after one pupil tested positive for COVID-19.The pupil is in Year 12, and while all precautionary and proper bubble measures have been followed, the school has also agreed to take additional precautions with advice from public health professionals and ask all Year 12 and 13 pupils, a total of 110 pupils, and three members of staff to self-isolate for 14 days until 30 September.

The school has been working closely with Public Health England and Wiltshire Council to ensure high standards of hygiene and social distancing are maintained and all the necessary measures are in place. The self-isolation of the pupils is very precautionary to minimise any risk to others.

The school has arranged for pupils to continue their learning at home during this time.

Jason Tudor, Headteacher at Kingsbury Green Academy, said: “We have written to all parents and carers to explain the situation, and we really appreciate their understanding and support as we know this will cause some unfortunate disruption for the Year 12 and 13 pupils and their families. The safety of everyone within our school community is our top priority and we’ll continue to work with Wiltshire Council and Public Health England to ensure this is managed closely and that the rest of the school can continue as before.

“We look forward to welcoming our Year 12 and 13 students back in a couple of weeks.”

Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health for Wiltshire, said: “These are very precautionary measures so that the risk of any transmission within the school communities is kept as low as possible. We’ll work with Public Health England to provide advice and guidance to support the school so that their high standard of COVID-19 measures are maintained.

“It is important those asked to self-isolate do adhere to the government guidance; 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.

“I would like to remind all our schools and the wider community that the best way to prevent the spread of the virus is to regularly wash your hands, maintain social distancing and wear a face covering where appropriate”.