St John’s closes as member of staff tests Covid positive

Last night, Tuesday October 20, Headteacher of St John’s Academy, Ian Tucker, made the decision to close the school today after hearing a member of staff had tested positive for Covid-19.

Commenting on this news in a letter to parents, he said, “I fully understand this will have caused anxiety amongst the community and I can assure you all necessary steps have been taken to minimise any risk to others, to cause the least disruption possible and to support all those affected.

The person involved is a member of staff at the school. We have conducted a thorough risk assessment with Wiltshire Council and the Public Health South West Team and, as you would expect, the investigation into risk has been extremely intensive.

I am pleased to be able to report that because of the school’s close adherence to the wearing of masks, social distancing and sanitisation, the Public Health South West Team, have said there is no need for any students or staff to self-isolate.”

Closing the school today, one day before the holiday was a precautionary measure and St John’s provided access to online learning for students. The school intends to reopen on Monday November 2 when they plan to redouble efforts with mask wearing, social distancing and sanitisation.

Parents and guardians should let the school know through the COVID-19 email – covid-19@stjohns.excalibur.org.uk if they have any pandemic related concerns the school needs to be aware of.

This is particularly important if you or your family need to take a test or have a positive case. The Twitter feed continues to be a very useful way of staying in touch with what St John’s are doing in the community.

Up to date Covid information on the school’s website can be found here