Sunderland students asked to self-isolate following positive Covid case two days after schools reopened

The parents and carers of a number of students at Academy 360 have been alerted after they were in close contact with a positive Covid-19 case within the school.

Headteacher Rachel Donohue has confirmed all of the students who were identified as ‘close contact’ have been told and a full risk assessment has been carried out with those students asked to stay at home and self-isolate.

All other students, who have not had close contact, do not need to make any changes to their usual routine and shout attend school.

It comes two days after schools across England reopened on Monday, March 8, as the first lockdown measures were eased.

In a letter from the school, posted on its Facebook site, Ms Donohue said: “This morning I contacted parents/carers of some students to alert them to the fact that they have been in close contact with a Covid-19 positive case within Academy 360.

"Students are identified on a ‘close contact basis’. A ‘contact’ is a person who has been close to someone who has tested positive for Covid-19 anytime from two days before the person was symptomatic up to 10 days from onset of symptoms (this is when they are infectious to others).

Adding: “We have carried out a full risk assessment and identified all those who have been in close contact with the affected case and have recommended that they stay at home and self-isolate.

"All students who have not had close contact do not need to make any changes to their usual routine, including school attendance."

The exact number of students asked to self-isolate is not included in the letter.

Parents and carers are also reminded to be mindful of the most common Covid symptoms – a new continuous cough and/or high temperature and/or loss of or change in normal taste and smell.

Ms Donohue added: “If your child, or anyone in your household develops these symptoms, your whole household must remain at home and not go to work, school or public areas. You should arrange testing for the person who has developed symptoms. When the result is known further advice will be available.”

Support your Echo and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on SAFC and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.