A BORDERS school has announced a coronavirus case.

On Friday afternoon (November 27), parents of S5 and S6 pupils at Galashiels Academy were informed.

An email, sent by head teacher Kevin Ryalls, said a small number of students would likely be contacted by NHS Test and Protect – if determined to be a close contact.

Mr Ryalls explained that it was unlikely that pupils in other year groups would be contacted.

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He reassured parents that pupils forced to self-isolate would receive home-learning support.

The school has also enhanced its cleaning programme ahead of the return to learning tomorrow (Tuesday), said Mr Ryalls. All schools were off today because of the St Andrew's Day holiday.

The email to Galashiels parents reads: "We are contacting you to provide information on a single positive COVID-19 case in our school community.

"Contact tracing is being carried out and it is anticipated that a small number of pupils may be contacted by NHS Test and Protect and asked to self-isolate, where it is determined that they are a ‘close contact’ of the person who has tested positive.

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"At this time the advice from NHS Borders’ Public Health team is that the risk of onward transmission remains low and all necessary procedures are in place in the school to minimise further spread of infection.

"We believe that only a small number of pupils in S5 and S6 will be contacted.

"We don’t anticipate any other year groups are affected and therefore are unlikely to be contacted.

"Pupils required to self-isolate will be supported with home learning.

"There is no reason for any other member of the school community to self-isolate or to seek a COVID-19 test unless they are displaying symptoms.

"For reassurance, additional, enhanced cleaning over and above our already enhanced normal cleaning programme will be carried out prior to the start of the school day on Tuesday.

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"The school remains open and is a safe place for pupils to learn.

"We have all necessary risk assessments, processes and procedures in place to keep the school COVID-free and we would simply ask that you continue to remain vigilant for COVID-19 symptoms in your household.

"As a reminder, the symptoms of COVID-19 are a new persistent cough, temperature/fever (37.8C or higher) and/or loss or change in ability to taste or smell.

"We can reassure you that the situation will be monitored closely and we will work with NHS Borders to ensure the most appropriate advice and updates are provided as required.

"Thank you for your assistance. Please stay safe and take care."