TWO Colchester schools have confirmed positive cases of Covid-19.

Thomas Lord Audley School, in Monkwick Avenue, has more than 120 students from Year 11 self-isolating after a confirmed case.

The number includes students considered close contacts and those where parents have made the decision.

One member of staff is also self-isolating as a precaution as they may have been a close contact with the student and are now delivering classes from home.

Headteacher Helena Boast said: "A large portion of Year 11 are now self-isolating as they are considered close contacts.

"All procedures have been put in place and we are now delivering learning via Google Classroom.

"We are making free school meal packages for the small number of children who need them.

"It is a concern and we have to deal with it proportionately."

Ms Boast said the school was following all the guidelines and had adopted a "cautious approach."

This week schools under Essex County Council were told all pupils in year seven and above, plus adults, must mask up when leaving the classroom and meet in communal areas.

Ms Boast added: "Essex in now in the high alert tier but we were already implementing face coverings since the beginning of term."

The student who tested positive had not been in school since Tuesday last week and no further cases have been confirmed among the pupils.

All pupils self-isolating will return to school after the half term break.

North East Essex Co-operative Academy, in Turner Road, also has a confirmed case.

In a letter sent home to parents headteacher Lawrence Terroni said: "We have been advised by Public Health England that there has been a confirmed case of Covid-19 within our community.

"We know that you may find this concerning but we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England.

"This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child.

"The small number of children who have been in close contact with the individual who has tested positive for coronavirus have received a letter asking them to stay at home for 14 days.

"The school remains open and your child should continue to attend as normal if they remain well."