THE headteacher of St Monica's R.C. High School has reassured parents after all Year 8 pupils from the school had to self-isolate.

The 12-13 year old pupils are having to work from home from today, along with smaller numbers from other year groups, after confirmed pupil cases of covid-19 in the school.

In a letter sent to parents and posted online, Headteacher Chris Foley said that he had spoken "at great length" with a senior adviser from the Bury Health Protection Team.

The two discussed measures and procedures in place and the team "remain satisfied" with how the situation at the school is being managed.

Earlier in September, Year 11 had to self-isolate following confirmed cases of the virus.

Mr Foley adds: "I will continue to ask for your support and patience during these challenging times. Please can you make sure that if your child displays any symptoms of Covid-19 you keep an accurate record of the day and time these symptoms first appeared.

"This information is essential for us in school as it takes at least three hours to deal with a confirmed pupil case in school."

He further asked people to remain socially responsible and to follow local and national guidance - as well as asking parents and carers to remind their children of the importance of face coverings and social distancing.

Mr Foley has also told parents to "err on the side of caution where a child has any type of symptom.

He added: "Where pupils are working from home, we ask that they play their part in their own learning. Together I am sure we can manage this situation."