CANFORD School has closed for two weeks and boarders encouraged to return home after three positive cases of coronavirus were confirmed.

An email was sent to parents yesterday outlining plans for a "Canford-focussed circuit breaker” which will involve remote learning until Wednesday October 21, followed by half term.

Headmaster Ben Vessey said: "I am writing to inform you that we have been advised this morning of three confirmed cases of Covid-19 at Canford.

The pupils concerned were all within the same year group. We are conducting our track and trace process in line with Public Health England guidance. On their advice, close contacts of the positive cases will be asked to self-isolate. We are in the process of communicating directly with those close contacts.

"With the close proximity to half-term very much in mind, we have taken the decision to implement a Canford-focussed “circuit breaker” to reduce the possible risk of infection, and have decided that on-site provision of our educational programme will cease today and recommence, as scheduled, after half-term.

"We would be grateful if you could make arrangements to collect your child as soon as possible."

He said accommodation will continue to be provided for those who cannot travel home immediately and for those already scheduled to remain during the half term break.