TWO schools in the county have announced they will be closed for this week and next after a coronavirus outbreak.

Pinvin C of E First School and St Nicholas C of E Middle School closed on Monday and will not re-open again until after the half term.

Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director for Public Health for Worcestershire said: “Individuals from Pinvin Federation have tested positive for COVID19.

"The cases were quickly identified, and the schools are being supported by Public Health. Staff and pupils are now self-isolating for 14 days in line with guidance and the Federation has made the decision that all pupils will continue their learning through home access this week and will return to school after the half-term break.”

Federation Headteacher Mrs Sandra Jennings said: ' The health and safety of all our pupils, their families and the community is always our key priority. Following a number of individual cases, we made the decision to revert to remote learning for the remainder of this week in order to further protect our school community and minimise risk.'

This week we reported how schools were struggling with the building pressure of keeping classrooms open whilst dealing with staff shortages due to coronavirus.

The county council have now recommended all parents and carers wear masks when on school property as the number of 'burst bubbles' soars to 58.

Dr. Kathryn Cobain said: “As at end of yesterday we had 58 bubbles/partial bubbles closed in 30 schools and colleges and 2,400 pupils affected.

"In some schools it is physically difficult for parents to adhere to two metre social distancing, so we are following recommendations and advising that parents should wear face coverings when they enter all school sites.

"Our schools are following the government guidance and no circuit breaker is planned. Should the Government’s position change on this, we will of course support our schools in delivering the necessary actions.

"As we approach half term I would ask all our school communities to really consider who you mix with and spend time with over the holidays.

"Now is not the time to visit your elderly and vulnerable relatives and we should all be following the rule of 6, not meeting up in big groups.

"Let’s keep Worcestershire in tier one of measures, and stay safe this half term.”