STUDENTS and staff at schools and Essex University have tested positive for Covid-19.

Two pupils at Southend High School for Boys have tested positive for the virus, headteacher Robin Bevan confirmed.

It comes as King John School sixth form students were also sent home for 14 days after a pupil tested positive for Covid-19.

Essex University confirmed a “small number” of staff and students tested positive for the virus.

The university said the cases were linked to the elite sports programme and associated junior programme.

The majority are showing no symptoms and are now self-isolating. The university did not confirm how many people had tested positive Registrar Bryn Morris said: “We would like to reassure our community that we have taken all necessary steps to contain this cluster of cases.

“The university is now working with the Essex contact tracing team, alongside colleagues from Essex County Council and Public Health England, to ensure all contacts of cases are identified and given appropriate advice.

“All students and staff are being offered tests to keep any potential spread of the infection under control and to understand the pattern of cases on our campuses.”

Southend High School for Boys said not all students had registered the consequences of breaching guidance.

Mr Bevan said in a letter: “You will also now know that we have had two positive test results reported for students.

“It is increasingly clear that not all students, or possibly even parents, have fully registered the consequences of actions in breach of the national guidance.”

King John parents also received a letter from the school which read: “We have been advised by Public Health England that there has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 within the school sixth form.

"We know that you may find this concerning but are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England.”