Ellesmere College has been taking precautions to avoid coronavirus among its students.

Headteacher Brendan Wignall said that steps to avoid the virus have been in place since before half-term, and is implementing self-isolation for any students who have visited category one countries.

Mr Wignall said: “The college has been taking active steps to manage the COVID-19 issue since before half-term. None of our students from Foreign and Commonwealth Office category one countries went home for half-term, for example.

“In line with government guidance we expect to remain open until told to do otherwise. We will be remaining open over the Easter break on a limited basis for students whose family homes are in Foreign and Commonwealth Office category one countries or regions.

“Any students that return that do travel to category one countries, or who find themselves in countries that become category one while they are there (on holiday, for example) will be required to self-isolate away from the college for 14 days before their return.

“Beyond that we are seeking to re-enforce and support the government advice that the best thing that anyone can do is to have excellent hand hygiene by washing their hands regularly. We are also encouraging the self-monitoring of potential symptoms.”