A SWEYNE Park pupil has tested positive for Covid-19.

The school, in Rayleigh, recently came under fire last month for a lack of social distancing during a fire drill.

Another pupil, in Year 11, also tested positive last month.

A letter, which the Echo has seen, was sent by the headteacher Katharine Dines, to parents by email today.

>>> Read more: School boss hits back after parents blast ‘unsafe’ drill

>>>> Read more:  Year 11 pupil at Sweyne Park School tests positive for Covid-19

It reads: "Dear Parents/Carers, I have been notified that one of our pupils has tested positive for COVID-19.

"The pupil in question has been isolating at home since 9 th October following the positive test of a family member.

"Therefore, we do not need to ask any further members of our school community, staff or pupils to self-isolate. We have reported the matter to Essex Schools Communication Team, and if we receive further advice we will progress as necessary."

It then adds Public Health England guidance: 

As a reminder of the current Public Health England guidance:

Close contact is defined as:

• face to face contact, for any length of time, within 1 metre, including being coughed on, a face to face conversation, or unprotected physical contact (skin-to-skin)

• proximity contacts - extended close contact (within 1 to 2 metres for more than 15 minutes)

• travelling in a small vehicle, like a car For all other pupils the school remains open and pupils should continue to attend if they feel well.

It continues: "Finally, further to my email on Friday 16th October, please do continue to remind your son/daughter of the need to wear a face covering at movement times and in communal areas, as well as when using public transport.

"Thank you for your ongoing support."