A SCHOOl has confirmed a member of its staff tested positive for Covid-19 - but they did not come into contact with any pupils.

Steve Durkin, headteacher of Castle View School on Canvey confirmed that no children were met by the teacher who tested positive after a teacher training day.

In an updated letter to parents, Mr Durkin said: "I can now confirm that a colleague was unwell on our staff training day and did subsequently test positive.

"This member of staff had no contact with children and was not in school on the day of a full return on Thursday 3rd September 2020. We identified any potential close contacts, they were advised immediately to remain at home.

"At the same time we contacted the authorities listed above. NHS: Track and Trace subsequently contacted the colleagues. All have subsequently tested negative.

"We continue to follow the guidance and these colleagues will not return until their period of self-isolation ends.

"The governors, our Trust and I, as Headteacher, will not hesitate to make the right decisions, with speed and precision to ensure we continue to reduce the risk of transmission, thereby protecting the health and wellbeing of every member of our school community as best as we can.

"We continue to work incredibly hard to get our children the learning and progress they deserve.

"As I am sure you can appreciate, the judgements I have to make are delicate, however the overwhelming support of colleagues, students and families has ensured that we have remained positive and focused on what we are here to do.

"My thanks to those parents, who have spoken to me about the positive start their children have had and that they appreciate the approach we have taken. Finally, I am mindful that at the heart of this is a colleague who, through no fault of their own, found themselves unable to be in school and unwell.

"There are human beings behind every single case and this does have an impact on them and others. I am pleased to let you know that our valued colleague is making a good recovery. We need to look out for each other in these most challenging of times.

"Our full curriculum will re-start from Friday 18th September 2020. My team and I continue to work tirelessly with your support to provide your children a quality learning experience and to look after their health and wellbeing.

"We will endeavour to provide as much information as we can and as quickly as possible. The school reserves the right to take the required action to ensure compliance with the guidance provided."