A NORTH-EAST school for children with severe learning difficulties has closed to all pupils after two positive Covid-19 tests.

Priory Woods in Netherfields, Middlesbrough, has this afternoon told parents and carers of the temporary closure.

The school teaches pupils that are aged between 4 and 19 and have a range of educational needs.

Headteacher Janis French said: "As a precaution and with the safety of our students, staff and their families at the forefront our minds, we have decided to close the school temporarily.

"While we're only aware of two confirmed Covid cases within school, we want to take every step possible to protect everyone in the school.

"The school has a risk assessment in place and has closely followed guidelines issued by Public Health England and the Department for Education. Many of our children have vulnerabilities and their health and wellbeing must come before everything else.

"We will continue to support each other and will stay in close contact with staff, parents and carers. I'd like to thank all parents and carers for their understanding and cooperation."

Cllr Mieka Smiles, Executive Member for Communities and Education at Middlesbrough Council, said: "The school has acted responsibly and quickly and we fully support their decision. The Council will continue to offer support to the school and will work towards a safe reopening once every precaution has been taken.

"Priory Woods is a brilliant school that offers a warm and loving environment to its pupils. Staff have worked so hard to prepare for a full re-opening and I know they will be keen to return as soon as possible."