A case of Covid-19 has been confirmed at a Tyneside high school with more than 800 pupils.
Parents of students at Benfield School, in Newcastle's East end, were informed on Wednesday that someone connected 'within' year 11 had tested positive for the virus.
The Walkergate school, which has pupils aged 11 to 18, remains open.
However, students who have been in close contact with the infected person have been told they must self-isolate.
Parents were informed of the development and sent texts indicating whether their children should return to the academy-run school or not.
They were all directed to one of two online letters, signed by headteacher Richard Carr, telling them what to do next.
An announcement on Benfield School's website explains the situation.
It says: "It has been confirmed to us today that there has been a positive case of Covid-19 reported within the school in Year 11.
"We have been in contact with Public Health England and have followed all of their advice comprehensively in relation to this case. We are continuing to monitor the situation and will communicate any further information which we receive.
"The students who have been in direct, prolonged contact with the confirmed case have been contacted or are in the process of being contacted this afternoon and their parents/carers have also received an individual letter.
"They will be staying at home to self-isolate for 14 days as directed by Public Health England.
"We are pleased to say that the school remains open to all other students and your child should continue to attend if they remain well and you have not received a message directing you to a letter from the school advising them to self-isolate.
"Our individual year group bubble system across the school. has worked well....this has allowed us to limit the number of students who have been affected.
"We thank staff, students and parents for your support in this matter and helping support Benfield to remain a safe and secure site."
