THE principal of Peter Symonds College has spoken out after a pupil has been diagnosed with coronavirus.

A letter was sent to parents and students over the weekend stating that the pupil had been put into self-isolation.

The college said that it had been told by Public Health England (PHE) one of their students had been diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Following the announcement, a deep clean of the college took place over the weekend and students were allowed to attend classes today (Monday).

Principal Sara Russell said: “We have been made aware by Public Health England (PHE) that one of our students has tested positive for coronavirus.

“This student is isolating at home. We are in close discussion with, and taking advice from, Public Health England who have contacted and provided guidance to those who have had close interaction with the student regarding self-isolation and what to do if symptoms develop.

“This tried and tested contact tracing process will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to our wider college community.

“Cleaning has already been carried out in accordance with PHE guidelines to ensure the college is ready to open as usual today.”

She added: “I understand that students and parents may be worried, but following advice from the specialists at PHE, I am assured that there is no need for the college to close, and we will be open as usual today.

“We will continue to closely monitor the situation and will inform students and parents quickly if the advice to us changes.”

This comes as government health officials confirmed eight people from Hampshire have tested positive for COVID-19.