A non-teaching member of staff from a Thundersley school has tested positive for coronavirus, school bosses have revealed.

Pupils, from what are believed to be mixed year groups, were sent home earlier today after being in contact with The King John School staff member.

The school, which is based on Shipwrights Drive, have reasurred that from the moment they were informed of the positive result that all necessary procedures were taken, which also included a phone call home from their student support team. 

It is believed that this is an isolated incident, with families expected to be contacted with an update on the news tomorrow.

A parent, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "My son who is in year seven has just started at the school and got sent home today along with other students.

"The classes who had been in contact with the staff member were called into assembly this morning and then were sent home. I believe it wasn't just one year but mixed groups.

"The school have told him he needs to self-isolate and then is safe to go back Tuesday, but that the others in the household should be fine to go about day to day life.

"When I spoke to reception they said there was minimal risk to the children, but it is a worry. He lives at his mums house, but I'd still like to see him.

"I have another child at home with cystic fibrosis, so I'm scared that I could bring something home even if my son doesn't have symptoms."

The 32-year-old from Southend, added: "I just want basic answers- how many were in the class at the time, how many entered after, when was the staff member tested, that sort of thing."

Headteacher Melanie McGauley, said: "As you may be aware, we have been advised that there has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 within the community at The King John School.

"From the moment we were informed of the positive test, all processes and procedures advised were enacted.

"A small number of students who have been in contact with the non-teaching member of staff have received a phone call from our student support team and sent home.

"This is an isolated incident and we are closely monitoring the situation.

"We will be in contact with our parents tomorrow with updated information."