Dear Parents/Carers    

We are aware that there has been a single confirmed case of COVID-19 at a couple of schools in Taunton. These schools in line with advice from Public Health England and in line with National Guidance have advised parents that all pupils in the affected year groups are to remain at home and self isolate for 14 days, but that other members of the household can continue normal activities provided their child does not develop symptoms within the 14 day self-isolation period.  

The creation of bubbles (usually year groups) enables schools to respond quickly to any outbreak and minimises wider transmission.

We will continue with our strict hygiene routines :

• Asking parents to keep unwell children away from school.
• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds throughout the day, more often than usual.
• The ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’ approach -cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze,  put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards.
• Minimising mixing by keeping to bubbles as much as possible.

Government guidance on face coverings

In primary schools where social distancing is not possible in indoor areas outside of classrooms between members of staff or visitors (for example, in staffrooms) head teachers will have the discretion to decide whether to ask staff or visitors to wear, or agree to them wearing face coverings in these circumstances. But children in primary school do not need to wear a face covering.

On the basis of current evidence, in light of the mitigating measures education settings are taking, and the negative impact on communication, face coverings will not generally be necessary in the classroom even where social distancing is not possible. There is greater use of the system of controls for minimising risk, including through keeping in small and consistent groups or bubbles, and greater scope for physical distancing by staff within classrooms. Face coverings can have a negative impact on learning and teaching and so their use in the classroom should be avoided.

We are continuing to ensure that pupils, staff and other adults do not come into the school if they have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms or have tested positive in at least the last 10 days and ensuring anyone developing those symptoms during the school day is sent home.