PUPILS from a primary school in Worcester have been sent home after "several" confirmed cases of covid.

The children from the "relevant bubbles" at Nunnery Wood Primary School have been sent home to self isolate.

The school, on Prestwich Avenue, declined to say how many children and staff were affected .

But the Worcester News understands, at least three classes have been affected.

Dr Kathryn Cobain, director of public health for Worcestershire, said: “We have been advised of several confirmed corona virus cases at Nunnery Wood Primary School. The cases were quickly identified by the school and Public Health. "

She added: "The relevant bubbles have been asked to self-isolate and the school continues to be supported by Public Health. All children within the bubbles will continue their learning through remote access."

The cases at Nunnery Wood were among 14 bubbles and partial bubbles that have been closed in five schools in the county.

The council said, as of May 18, 465 pupils and staff were out of school. Case numbers for individual schools were not provided.

Pupils from Red Hill Primary School were among those sent home to self isolate this week. In a letter to parents, the headteacher said "We have been informed by the Public Health local health protection team that there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the school, as identified by NHS Test and Trace. All contacts of a confirmed case must follow the national guidance, stay at home and self-isolate for 10 days. We have followed the national guidance and have identified that your child in Year 4 has been in close contact with the affected individual. In line with national legislation, your child must now stay at home and self-isolate until Monday 24th May 2021. At the end of the 10 day period of self-isolation, if your child is well, then they can return to usual activities on Tuesday 25th May 2021".

Pupils returned to the classrooms in March after nine weeks at home.