A March secondary school has closed today on the last day of term because a number of staff have been 'pinged' to self-isolate.

Neale Wade Academy has made the decision as staff were being contacted through the NHS track and trace app.

A letter issued to parents yesterday (Tuesday) explained students will return to online learning for the day.

The school will still be able to accommodate vulnerable and children and those of keyworkers. Parents can contact the school directly to make arrangements.

The letter, from school principal Graham Horn, said: “The decision has been made due to the increasing numbers of staff having to self-isolate.

“We need to ensure that we have a safe and secure environment, sadly with staff absence this becomes difficult.

“Students will move to online learning... Work will be accessed through Microsoft Teams, as before. Staff will take registers as students log on.”

A spokesperson added: “It is unfortunate that this decision had to be made on the last day of the academic year, and we thank the school’s community for their understanding both today and over the course of the year.”

Students are currently set to return to school on Monday, September 6.