A SCHOOL in Wimborne has reported an outbreak of Covid cases among its student population.

Canford School confirmed that a member of their year 9 cohort had tested positive for the coronavirus after return to the school from the half-term break.

This adds to other cases reported among the school’s Upper Sixth year group, as well as two cases in the Lower Sixth year.

In an email sent to parents this morning, headmaster Ben Vessey said that “with a very heavy heart”, a positive case had been recorded among the school’s Shell year group earlier this morning.

A spokesman for the school said: “We confirm that a number of our pupils tested positive for Covid-19 shortly after their return from the half-term break.

“The school is working closely with Public Health Dorset, BCP Council and Public Health England South West to ensure that all necessary measures are being met.

“All close contacts of the confirmed cases have been notified, requested to book a PCR test and to self-isolate as instructed in the Government guidance.

“Canford School remains open. The school is committed to responding in a proportionate and appropriate manner to safeguard the whole school community.

“Senior management are constantly reviewing the situation in response to further medical and Government guidance.”

Bournemouth Echo:

A parent from the school said that day pupils were told they were allowed to leave school around 9am this morning.

Many staff have had to isolated leaving suspected staffing issues at Canford School.

A BCP Council spokesman said: “BCP Council is working closely with Public Health Dorset and all schools to safely manage any cases of Covid-19 that occur.

“All schools and education settings in the area are following government guidance to ensure the safety of staff and pupils.”