A BRIDGWATER school has been forced to close to Year 7 and 8 students due to a lack of teaching staff.

Robert Blake Science College announced today (Tuesday, March 17) that the school would close to Year 7 and 8 students for the next 14 days.

In a letter home to parents headteacher Deb Loveridge said it had been 'a very difficult decision'.

"The closure is due to a lack of teaching staff who are self-isolating and not because of any confirmed cases of coronavirus at the school," Ms Loveridge writes.

Children in receipt of free school meals will still be able to come to school for lunch and work will be set for the children online.

Ms Loveridge states: "I am sorry for this inconvenience however, I must reiterate that we are following all guidelines as given by the Government.

"We will keep you updated with any further changes. We would appreciate your patience in these unprecedented times."