A MEMBER of the school community at Tavistock College has tested positive for Covid-19.

The school says a ‘small number of children’ who have been in close contact with the affected individual have been asked to stay at home for 14 days.

Meanwhile the school remains open and all other children are to continue to attend school, unless they develop symptoms.

Principal Sarah Jones said in a letter to parents: ‘We have been made aware of a member of our school community who has tested positive for Covid-19.

‘We know that you may find this concerning but we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England. This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (Covid-19) will be a mild illness.

‘The small number of children who have been in close contact with the individual who has tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) have received a letter informing them that their child must stay at home for 14 days.

‘The school remains open and your child should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.’

The letter to parents, sent by email, also gives parents advice on what to do if their child should develop symptoms.

These include a new continuous cough, a high temperature and a loss of sense of taste or smell.

Anyone developing these symptoms should remain at home and not leave the house for 14 days. Other members of the household should do the same.

Anyone with symptoms can request a Covid-19 test at via https://www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test or by calling 119. If this returns a negative result they will be able to return to school or work.