SEVERAL Covid-19 cases have been confirmed at a secondary school today.

In a letter sent to Sweyne Park School parents, school leadership revealed “a small number” of positive cases had been confirmed today (September 8).

The exact number of cases has not been confirmed by the Rayleigh school, which has told pupils they are expected to continue attendance unless they also test positive.

The letter read: “We know that you may find this concerning, but we are continuing to monitor the situation with the support of the Local Authority... Please be reassured that for most young people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.

NHS Test and Trace is set to undertake contact tracing and will contact parents of children who are identified as a close contact. 

“In line with the latest Government guidelines that were released in August 2021, identified close contacts who are under 18 years and six months of age, do not need to self-isolate.  Instead, they are advised to get a PCR test,” the letter continues.

Children identified have been instructed to continue attending school but have been told to arrange a PCR test. Only if this test returns positive, or they display symptoms of Covid-19, should that child refrain from school and self-isolate.

The school has pledged to provide any child who has to self-isolate with remote learning.

The letter added: “We will continue to review our risk assessment plan and adhere to the protective measures in place at school.  These measures include hygiene and cleaning measures and keeping spaces well ventilated.”