More on KentOnline
Senior teachers have sounded a warning to parents after a large number of pupils have been struck down with illness across a Kent secondary school.
Leaders at Hartsdown Academy in Margate wrote to parents after multiple reported cases of respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.
In the letter, the school says it is not closing and children should attend as normal if they remain well.
Head of school Ian Wallace wrote to parents and carers this afternoon, saying: “We are writing to inform you that Hartsdown Academy has multiple cases of respiratory illness and gastrointestinal illness throughout the school.
“The setting remains open, and your child should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.”
But parents have been sharing stories of the outbreak which has taken their children down.
One said: “My son goes to this school – he has been very poorly since Saturday morning. Temperature. He won't be returning to school this week until he is 100%.
“This has wiped the poor lad out and he is never poorly.”
Another added: “My daughter had 15 students in her class after most of them were sent home.”
Separate guidance has been given to parents of Sixth Form students.
Those in Years 12 and 13 are being asked to study at home “again” on Wednesday with the upper year group being told only to come in for Period 4 and 5 lessons.
The letter also offers guidance for those who develop symptoms.
Children exhibiting signs of respiratory infection which are mild such as a runny nose, sore throat and cough are told to continue attending.
But those with a high temperature are advised to stay at home until they no longer have one.
And, students who develop a gastrointestinal illness which often includes vomiting and diarrhoea should not come in until 48 hours after their symptoms end.