Ashby School praised the 'maturity and gratitude' of its pupils as 5,000 Covid tests were carried out in nine days.

The school's headteacher Geoff Staniforth made the comments after students returned to the classroom following the first stage of the easing of lockdown.

And, in a letter to parents this month, he made it clear that things had gone smoothly.

Mr Staniforth said: "Over the last nine days, we have carried out more than 5,000 Covid tests in school on the vast majority of the students.

"I would like to express my appreciation to all the staff who have been involved in this as it has been a huge commitment.

"I would also like to thank all the students again as they have been brilliant, demonstrating real maturity and gratitude.

"Students have had three tests in school so we now move to home testing. They need to test twice a week and make this a regular routine.

"When they have the test result, you will need to log it with the track and trace system.

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"Your son or daughter will receive further test kits on the last day of term that will cover the Easter holiday period."