ELLESMERE'S Lakelands Academy will remain open despite a member of staff testing positive for Covid-19 last week.

In a letter sent to parents and posted on its website, headteacher Sophy Bellis explained that the staff members had been in contact with someone who had tested positive, and were now self-isolating.

Ms Bellis also asked for pupils and families to remain vigilant to keep transmission rates low at the school, in Oswestry Road, and avoid attending if displaying any symptoms.

"We have been advised that we have had a single test result come back positive for Covid-19," she said.

"This is a member of staff, who came into contact with a positive Covid-19 case outside of school and has now tested positive themselves. They are well, but are now self-isolating.

"As you know, Lakelands Academy has introduced rigorous systems to protect children and staff in line with national and Shropshire guidance. However, despite all the processes that have been put in place, schools are a reflection of the current Covid picture nationally, so transmission in school remains a possibility.

"As you would expect, we are reacting swiftly to implement the guidance for this situation.

"Lakelands Academy will remain open and only the identified classes and adult close contacts of the member of staff will be asked to self- isolate.

"The siblings of any of the children in these classes or year group can still attend school. Other household members can carry on as normal, unless someone in the household becomes symptomatic.

"May I take this opportunity to reinforce the symptoms of Covid-19 to ensure that if students or any family members are displaying any of the below illnesses, the whole family should remain at home."

The most common symptoms of coronavirus (COVID 19) are recent onset of a new continuous cough, high temperature and/or a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia).

Ms Bellis added: "I would like to close this letter by stressing the importance of sending your child to school throughout these difficult times.

"With that in mind, please do not hesitate to contact school if you have any questions, via the school phone number, or by email."