A SECONDARY school in Woodley will remain open despite a confirmed coronavirus case at a nearby school.

The Principal of Waingels College, Tom Bartlett, released a statement on the school's website yesterday (March 1) explaining it "will be open as normal".

The decision comes as a teacher at nearby Willow Bank Infant School has tested positive for coronavirus.

READ MORE: Coronavirus warning to parents of Willow Bank School as teacher tests positive.

Willow Bank Infant School and Willow Bank Junior School have since been closed for a deep clean.

It has not been confirmed there is a connection between Waingels College and Willow Bank School.

In his statement, Mr Bartlett, hoped to reassure parents.

He said: "Since the diagnosis was confirmed, the rest of the family have been in self isolation and none of the family have shown any symptoms of the virus."

He continued: "Under these circumstances, advice from the Local Authority that I received today, is that the national advice and guidance from Public Health England remains in force until such time as we are notified otherwise.

"Therefore, Waingels will be open as normal until and unless we are advised by the Local Authority or Public Health England to the contrary."

The affected person reportedly returned from a category 2 country after half term and as soon as they became aware of the symptoms, followed advice from Public Health England.

Social media posts online have reported parents potentially keeping their children off school as a result of the nearby school closures.

READ MORE: Earley school to have coronavirus 'deep clean' procedures.

Mr Bartlett continued: "I know that this is an anxious time for us all.

"However, I would urge all parents, students and staff to remain calm, to follow the advice from Public Health England and to refrain from speculation.

"I will, of course, remain in close contact with Public Health England and the Local Authority and update you as appropriate.

"I am sure I can say on behalf of the whole school community that our thoughts and best wishes are with the affected family.

"At this time, it is important that we all respect their privacy."