Beauchamps High School in Wickford closed today due to Covid-19

Beauchamps High School in Wickford shared on Twitter yesterday that they had been left with no choice but to shut their doors completely.

A spokesman said: "Unfortunately, due to COVID, we have had to close the school tomorrow.

"All parents/carers have been emailed full details.

"We will update you as often as we receive new information.

"Online teaching provision will continue as normal. Thankyou."

The news comes after Essex County Council refused a plea by Basildon Council leader Gavin Callaghan to close all schools in the borough due to the rising number of Covid cases.

Basildon entered the top ten of most affected area in England on Friday and it is feared the borough could be plunged into Tier 3 restrictions.

Unfortunately, due to COVID, we have had to close the school tomorrow. All parents/carers have been emailed full details. We will update you as often as we receive new information. Online teaching provision will continue as normal. Thankyou.

— Beauchamps High (@Beauchampssch) December 6, 2020