Covid-19 case reported at Eastbourne school

Parents of students at Willingdon Community School were told in a letter sent out on Friday (October 9).

The letter, signed by headteacher Emily Beer, said a small number of children, who have been in close contact with the individual who tested positive for coronavirus – would be asked to stay at home for 14 days.

Ms Beer said the school remains open and young people should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.

On Saturday Ms Beer confirmed the member of the school community was a member of staff.

She said, “Can I firstly thank the members of our parent community who emailed me to ask how the person was and wishing them a speedy recovery. That demonstrates our core value of compassion and we are very grateful for parents reflecting this value too. The individual is doing well and remains in isolation at home, until the recommended period ends.

“I feel it would help to share with you that the individual is a member of staff who, after a thorough review of their activity in school, has been identified as having had limited contact with other staff and students.

“There will only be six children needing to isolate based on instruction from Public Health England.”