A CHESTER high school is closed to several year groups this week due to a Covid outbreak.

Blacon High School will be shut to Years 7, 8 and 9 until Friday, December 17. Students will be expected to continue learning remotely through Google Classroom, the school said in a statement.

Pupils in Years 10 and 11 should continue to attend if they are fit and well.

Headteacher Rachel Hudson said the reason why the school was shut to Years 7-9 was due to the number of teachers currently absent due to Covid, a number of positive tests in Years 7 and 8, along with extremely vulnerable staff who are now required to work from home.

Covid cases are currently near record highs in Cheshire West and Chester, with the highest rates currently being found in those aged 10-14, with 1.7 per cent of them testing positive per week.

In her statement, published on the school's website, the headteacher said: "We currently have more than five confirmed cases of Covid-19 in our school setting that have been identified in Years 7 and 8 and this meets the threshold set by the Government.

"We have reviewed our current levels of staff absence and risk assessment and I have sought advice from Public Health and the Schools Relationship Team in Cheshire West and Chester.

"Due to the number of teachers currently absent from school due to Covid, along with extremely vulnerable staff who are now required to work at home and absence in our support team, including cleaners, we have assessed the staffing ratios and made the following decision, to keep everyone safe.

"The school will close to students in Years 7, 8 and 9 from Monday 13th until Friday 17th December. All of these students will be expected to continue with their learning remotely through Google Classroom.

"Students in Years 10 and 11 will be expected in as normal and for any students who are currently unwell or isolating in these year groups, they are expected to continue with their learning using Google Classroom if they are well enough.

"School will remain open to all staff who are fit and well and to students in Years 10 and 11.

"Due to the increasing cases within school, of both staff and students, Public Health have recommended that all students in Years 7, 8 and 9 book a PCR test, even if they have no Covid-19 symptoms, to keep everyone safe in your family. Testing can be arranged by calling 119 or via the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

"Please ensure you inform the school of any positive cases by phoning reception or emailing admin@blaconhigh.cheshire.sch.uk"