Coronavirus: Bidbury Infant School in Bedhampton to remain open after positive Covid-19 result

STAFF and students will not have to isolate after a positive coronavirus case was confirmed on a school premises.

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Bidbury Infant School in Fraser Road, Bedhampton. Picture: Google MapsBidbury Infant School in Fraser Road, Bedhampton. Picture: Google Maps
Bidbury Infant School in Fraser Road, Bedhampton. Picture: Google Maps

Bidbury Infant School in Bedhampton had a case of Covid-19 this week but parents have been informed that no staff or student bubbles will have to isolate.

Headteacher Tarnia Townshend said: ‘We have acted on Public Health England advice and there is no need for us to close the Infant School. I also confirm that we have no positive or suspected cases of coronavirus among our staff or pupils, at the current time.

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‘I am confident that we are taking every step to help prevent the spread of infection.’

One parent, who wished to remain anonymous, told The News that they and others were concerned over the lack of information about the positive case.

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A letter sent to parents and carers from Ms Townshend on Wednesday read: ‘Just before the end of the school day I was informed that there has been a positive test result for coronavirus within the building.

‘After consulting with Public Health England and sharing all relevant information they have advised us that we do not need to close any bubbles or take any further action and so I am pleased to confirm that the school will remain open as usual.

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‘Owing to restrictions and data protection I am unable to give any further information.

‘Please be assured that this school continues to follow the government guidance and maintain the measures necessary to prevent the spread of infection.’

It comes after confirmed Covid-19 cases at Woodcroft Primary School in Waterlooville, Bedenham Primary School in Gosport, Portchester Community School and Swanmore Primary School.

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Barry Fanning, headteacher at Woodcroft Primary, said a staff member contracted the virus.

He said: ‘We have had one confirmed case of Covid-19.

‘This individual is an adult who doesn’t work directly with the schoolchildren.

‘We have followed the advice from Public Health England to the letter – the person has gone into isolation and the school will remain open.’

Keep up to date with the latest coronavirus news in Portsmouth with our Coronavirus Updates Facebook group.

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