Confirmed Covid-19 cases at two Dorchester schools as students and staff self-isolate

Thomas Hardye School, based on Queen's Avenue, has written to parents and carers to state that have been three positive tests of Covid-19 within the school. 

The affected students were last in school on Friday (October 9) and remain in self-isolation. Several Year 12 students have also been advised to self-isolate for 14 days by Public Health England.

Mike Foley, headteacher at Thomas Hardye, said they are 'continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England'.

He said in a letter on Tuesday (October 13):"The school will obviously remain open until Friday (October 16) when we are due to begin the half-term holiday. 

"The school has been working closely with our team at Public Health England South West and Dorset Council to ensure high standards of hygiene and social distancing are maintained and ensuring all the necessary measures are in place.

Dorchester Middle School, based on Coburg Road, has also confirmed two cases of Covid-19 within its school.

Caroline Pluck, headteacher at Dorchester Middle School, confirmed the news in a letter to parents and carers on Monday (October 12).

She has stated that a group of Year 8 pupils and a few members of staff are currently self-isolating at home as the school remains open. 

Mrs Pluck said: "We were advised that there are two further confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the school. Having consulted with the Department for Education, and in line with their guidance, a group of Y8 pupils and a few members of staff have been asked to self-isolate at home.

"The school remains open to all other pupils and staff who should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.

"This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness."

The new confirmed cases of Covid-19 come as Dorset Studio School wrote to parents and carers about a positive test of coronavirus within the school. 

Dr Annetta Minard, executive principal, said the school remains open during this time as the infected person self-isolates. 

Are there any coronavirus cases at your school? Are you concerned about the reported cases? Email me at michael.taylor@newsquest.co.uk.