A primary school has sent home a large chunk of staff members and two year groups after it confirmed two Covid-19 cases.

Manor Community Primary School in Keary Road, Swanscombe informed 179 pupils and 24 members of staff they must stay home.

It comes after two confirmed cases of coronavirus within its reception and year six classes.

The rest of the school will remain open to staff and pupils in line with existing Public Health England (PHE) guidelines.

Head teachers Natalie Hill and Indira Naidu said: “Unfortunately, we have had two confirmed cases of Covid-19 within our Year R & 6 bubbles.

"My colleagues and I are following PHE guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone within the school community and as a result 179 pupils and 24 members of staff will be self-isolating at home until November 30.

"Home learning will be provided via Purple Mash and Microsoft Teams and staff will support pupils with their learning remotely.

“The rest of the school remains open with staff and pupils continuing to follow PHE guidance in terms of social distancing, handwashing and cleaning to minimise the spread of the virus and ensure everyone can continue to learn and work in a safe environment.

“I would like to thank the staff, our parents and carers and our pupils for their support and understanding at this difficult time.”

As part of Covid-19 secure guidelines, students are allocated into "bubbles" designed to stop the transmission of the virus across the school.

Classrooms have been arranged to avoid students sitting directly face to face and being in close contact with each other.

If a school develops multiple cases where cross transmission is a factor, Public Health England will then advise whether a partial or full school closure is needed.

Click here for a list of schools across the county which have confirmed full or partial closures as a result of Covid-19.

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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