School near Milton Keynes confirms student has Covid-19

Bedford Academy, in Mile Road, said the student tested positive this week and that the school is now working with Public Health England (PHE) and Bedford Borough Council (BBC).

Headteacher Chris Deller said to the parents of each student that came into close contact with the confirmed case that their child was required to self-isolate at home for 14 days.

A school spokesperson said: "On PHE's specific advice we wrote to all parents whose child had been in the same room as the student with positive test

results.

"We advised that should their son/daughter develop any symptoms, they are to follow government advice and self-isolate and arrange for their child to be tested.

"Parents were also encouraged to contact the headteacher should they have any questions or specific concerns. We identified students who had been in close contact with the confirmed case."

The school has deep cleaned all areas of the building used by the infected student and said it continues to deliver 'enhanced daily cleaning routines'.

The spokesperson said: "Throughout the response we have been deeply impressed by the maturity demonstrated by our students and by the overwhelming support we have received from the families within our community.

"We are confident that the measures we have put in place in recent months to control the spread of infection are effective but will continue to review and adapt our procedures in line with new government guidance.

"We will remain vigilant and liaise closely with PHE and BBC to ensure the safety of our students, staff and local community remains our first priority."