The Priory has hailed Hitchin Boys' School for its 'professionalism' in dealing with a Covid case which forced it close on Monday.

In a show of solidarity, the Priory School on Bedford Road has praised HBS for its handing of the case.

As Hitchin Nub News reported earlier HBS acted with 'clarity and openness' in responding to a member of staff testing positive for Covid.

The learning establishment on Grammar School Walk earned plaudits for its swift action in shutting its doors to pupils on Monday, before holding an emergency meeting to determine its next step.

After having taken all the necessary precautions and Covid-secure safety management, HBS took decisive action in deciding to re-open on Tuesday.

In a letter to parents, seen by Hitchin Nub News, Priory head Geraint Jones praised HBS and its head Fergal Moane.

"Most of you will be aware that Hitchin Boys' School has been closed today due to a confirmed case of COVID-19 but will be reopening for all students tomorrow," the letter read, adding: "The three secondary school headteachers in Hitchin have a very close working relationship and we have been in regular contact over the weekend.

"Mr Moane and his leadership team have had a challenging couple of days and I would like to thank them publicly as the headteacher of the Priory School and as a local resident for their dedication and professionalism."

In light of the confirmed case at HBS, the Priory has reviewed its risk management procedures and have introduced the following measures, which includes members of staff to wear face coverings in all corridors, inside communal areas and where two-metre

distancing in work rooms or offices cannot be maintained.

Sixth form students will also wear face coverings in all corridors, inside communal areas and where two-metre

distancing in study rooms cannot be maintained.

Face coverings do not need to be worn in lessons but students may do so if they wish.

From Wednesday, the Priory will also introduce the following risk management protocols for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students.

The school has decided all students must bring to school a face covering and an individual sealable plastic bag to store this in when it is not being used.

Students will also need to wear their face covering in the following areas:

When entering the school;

When moving between lessons either inside or outside;

When lining up to enter a lesson;

When lining up for food in the Café;

When leaving the school site.

Students are not required to wear a face covering in lessons but may choose to do so.

At the end of each lesson students will place their face coverings on before moving on to the next phase of their day.

Face coverings will not need to be worn during break and lunchtime when the students are outside.

The Priory is also reviewing their arrangements for PE, the use of changing rooms and whether students should come to school in their PE kit.

The school explained that they will notify parents and pupils of any changes to their PE arrangements once they have explored all options.