A secondary school in Maidstone has shut for one day to carry out a deep clean after a third pupil tested positive for coronavirus.

Cornwallis Academy, in Loose, is closed today to all staff and pupils.

This comes after a Year 7 pupil tested positive, swiftly followed the next day with an announcement that a Year 11 had caught the virus as well.

In a letter to parents sent on Friday evening, the school confirmed another case in Year 11.

Both year groups are self-isolating until Monday, November 23.

Head teacher Samantha McMahon said: “Whilst we have been advised by Public Health England (PHE) that we are not required to take any further action as our Year 11 bubble is already closed, our trust chief executive officer and I have made the decision to carry out an extensive deep clean of the school including the use of a disinfectant fogging machine.

“As a result of this, we will be requiring all students and staff to remain at home on Monday, November 16. A full timetable of lessons will continue to be delivered on Monday for all students via Microsoft teams.

“With the exception of our students in the Year 7 and Year 11 bubble who must continue to self-isolate until Monday, November 23, as directed by PHE, we are looking forward to seeing all other year groups back in school on Tuesday.

“Please rest assured that this decision was not taken lightly but the health and safety of our school community is paramount. As always, we will continue to do everything we can to support all students, staff and Cornwallis families."

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