A SOMERSET sixth form has told students to stay at home after a confirmed cases of coronavirus from one of the students.

The incident has occurred at Wadham School, in Crewkerne.

Only the school's sixth form students have been sent home, with the main Upper School still open.

A spokesperson for Wadham School said: “Public Health England South West and Somerset County Council’s Public Health and Education teams are working together to support pupils, parents and staff following a confirmed case of Covid-19 at the school.

"Close contacts of the confirmed case, a Sixth form student, have been provided with public health advice and are self-isolating.   "Following discussions with PHE this involves all of the Sixth form, a total of 33 students."

A comprehensive deep clean of the affected areas of the school is being undertaken.

The spokesman added: "School staff and parents have been provided with public health advice including what to do if someone becomes symptomatic.

"Parents have been advised it is not necessary for any other member of the household to self-isolate unless they become symptomatic.

"It is also not necessary to arrange for a test unless you are symptomatic."

Public Health England has provided the school with advice on infection prevention and control and staff will continue to reinforce these key messages:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
  • Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available Wash your hands as soon as you get home
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
  • Put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards.