BISHOP Fox's School, Taunton, has issued a comprehensive statement to ease concerns over

two Covid-19 cases there.

Year 7 and Year 11 groups are self isolating after two pupils tested positive for the virus.

The cases are not believed to be connected.

A spokesperson for the school said: “In recent days we have been informed of two positive cases of coronavirus within the school community at Bishop Fox’s.

“Working with colleagues at Public Health England and Somerset County Council’s Public Health Team we undertook a risk assessment and identified the children who may have been in close contact with the confirmed cases and asked them to self-isolate for 14 days.

“With this support we were able to act swiftly and take effective action. We want to stress that we do not believe these two cases to be linked through attendance at school.

"PHE has carried out a risk assessment and is satisfied with all the measures we’re taking to keep students safe.

“Part of this has involved a comprehensive deep clean of the school.

“We must stress that children self-isolating at home do not need to get a test unless they develop symptoms.

“If any other students become symptomatic and are awaiting tests or results, they must self-isolate and must not come to school.

“Cleary this has had an impact on the school community and those pupils involved and their families.

“However, both affected year groups - Year 7 and Year 11 - will have comprehensive online resources building on the curriculum they would be following at school, while they are self-isolating, and they have been set assignments so they can focus on meaningful and ambitious work reflecting their full timetable provision.

“Teachers will make use of instructional videos to aid explanations and provide clarity on what is to be taught and practised in each subject.

“Somerset County Council will be working with the school to ensure that vulnerable pupils get the support they need whilst self-isolating

“The county’s e-learning and information management team is supporting the school with online learning and technology.

“We also have access to lap-tops through a government scheme if there are pupils who need them to do their work.”