Pupils at three schools and students at Wiltshire College have been told to self-isolate after classmates had positive coronavirus results.

Hundreds are affected after cases of Covid-19 were diagnosed at Dilton Marsh CofE Primary School, Larkrise School in Trowbridge, Wiltshire College and University Centre’s Trowbridge campus and at Royal Wootton Bassett Academy. 

Kate Blackburn, director of Public Health in Wiltshire said: “I would like to wish those individuals a very speedy recovery and we must stress that each of the measures taken in these settings is necessary.

“Wiltshire must work together to make sure the virus is kept under control and doesn’t spread. “

At Dilton Marsh CofE Primary School near Westbury, 32 pupils have been told to self-isolate after head teacher, Jill Hibbs, tested positive for Covid-19. 

A total of 24 pupils from different year groups and eight members of staff have been affected and will self-isolate until October 2. 

The school temporarily closed to pupils but after conversations with Wiltshire Council and Public Health England, all pupils not identified as close contacts will make a staggered return from Friday. 

Following one confirmed case of a pupil at Larkrise School in Trowbridge 10 pupils and 10 members of staff will self-isolate until October 5.

Head teacher, Phil Cook said there will be a deep clean of the area, classrooms and the school transport.

He added: “We have completed risk assessments for all of the children affected to ensure they have the support they need during this time and will provide home learning opportunities so they can continue their learning.

“The safety of our pupils and staff is our priority and we have written to parents to inform them and to reassure them of our processes and practices.”

One student studying at Wiltshire College’s Trowbridge Campus has tested positive and as a precautionary measure, 24 students will self-isolate until October 5.

Wiltshire College principal Amanda Burnside said: “We have contacted and written to all parents and carers and students to explain the situation. 

“I am really grateful to them for their understanding and support as we know this will cause disruption for these families.

“The safety of everyone within our college community is the most important thing and we will continue to work with Wiltshire Council and Public Health England to ensure this is managed closely so that our students can continue their vital education.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone back in a couple of weeks.”

Royal Wootton Bassett Academy has sent 277 pupils in Year 10 home to self-isolate after one student tested positive for coronavirus.

The pupils will be off until Wednesday. Head teacher Anita Ellis said despite the large catchment area for the school, she was confident these cases were not transmitted in the school.

Ms Blackburn added: “We know this causes some unfortunate disruption for the schools, pupils, teachers and their families, however, all the settings have prepared brilliantly for an eventuality such as this. 

“We will provide as much support as is required to ensure the pupils can learn at home with as little disruption as possible.”

She said it was crucial that those asked to self-isolate adhere to government guidelines and if they do not present symptoms then they do not need to test.

On Monday it will become law to self-isolate if you are advised to do so by NHS test-and-trace.