Coronavirus cases confirmed at two West Norfolk primary schools

Coronavirus cases have been confirmed at two West Norfolk primary schools with arrangements for home learning in place at both.

The Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust said two members of the school community at Gayton Primary Academy have tested positive.

And the trust also confirmed there has also been a positive coronavirus case at Whitefriars Academy.

All children and staff in the affected 'bubble' have been asked to self-isolate after the Gayton school received the information on Wednesday morning.

A spokesman for the trust said staff "immediately acted in the best interests of the whole school" by asking those affected to stay at home.

He added: "The mixed year group bubble’s parents have been contacted and they have been asked to self-isolate at home until November 30 and to get tested if they should have any symptoms."

Whitefriars Academy was alerted to the new coronavirus case this morning (Friday, November 20) so arrangements were made to alert parents in the affected Year 1 and Year 2 'bubble' before school started.

Those affected have been asked to isolate until December 2 and all parents have been informed.

It comes as an additional bubble of reception children have been self-isolating since last Monday (November 16), due to a positive Covid-19 test. They will return to school on Monday, November 30.

The trust spokesman added: "Arrangements for home learning are in place at both schools to ensure children at home can continue to access the curriculum.

"The schools remain open to all other students and we continue to follow strict social distancing, cleaning and hygiene protocols and advice, as directed by Public Health England."

The number of coronavirus cases in West Norfolk for the seven days up to November 16 has increased to 217 compared to 187 the previous week, Public Health England figures show.

Breckland has had 153 cases recorded up to November 16, down from 163 the previous week.