A TEACHER at a primary school in Leigh has tested positive for coronavirus in the latest case to hit a south Essex school.

All pupils taught by the Year 4 teacher at Chalkwell Hall Junior School, on London Road, have been sent home and are self-isolating for 14 days.

All teachers in the year group are also self-isolating.

It comes just days after a pupil tested positive for the virus at the same school, but following advice from the government, no children were forced to self-isolate as the youngster had already been off school for two days.

It is the latest in a number of outbreaks in schools in south Essex – with both Shoebury High School, on Caulifield Road, and King John School, on Shipwrights Drive, Thundersley, sending the entire sixth forms home to isolate.

Jerry Glazier, Secretary at National Education Union’s Essex branch, praised teachers for all of their hard work and dedication since September.

He, said: “Teachers returned to work in September with a determination to do their utmost to support children in their schools.

“It’s not been ‘business as usual’ and it won’t be until such time that these infection levels are down.

“I know that teachers are overwhelmingly wanting to do the very best for the kids in their schools and have been working extremely hard not only teaching kids, but trying to ensure they are catching up wherever possible, but also preparing their lessons so they can be delivered remotely if necessary.”

Last week, St Bernard’s School, in Westcliff, also confirmed a pupil tested positive last week.

Bournes Green Infant School, on Burlescoombe Road, has also had to send reception pupils home to self isolate following a positive test at the school.

Chalkwell Junior School emailed parents on Sunday to confirm that one Year 4 class would need to isolate.

The letter said: “As a result of coming into contact with the affected staff member, all Year 4 teachers have been advised by Test and Trace to isolate for 14 days from their last contact with the affected person.

“This means they will not be in school until Thursday November 26.”

Virtual lessons have been taking place for children isolating.