An academy in Chatham is the latest to feel the pressure of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Balfour Junior Academy, in Balfour Road, Chatham, has asked Years 5 and 6 to self-isolate until December 11 due to a lack of staff and three positive cases of the virus.

The school also confirmed that someone in its Year 4 bubble tested positive for the virus and has asked three classes to stay home from tomorrow (Monday).

In a message to parents today, head teacher Zoe Mayston said: "You may be aware of a number of classes across the school that we have had to unfortunately close from tomorrow.

"This is in part due to three new confirmed cases of Covid-19 but largely due to a number of staff who have been notified that they need to self-isolate due to contact with someone who has tested positive either within or outside the school.

"This has led to severe staff shortages, which we are unable to cover safely using the remaining school staff.

"I have notified Public Health England today and will continue to work closely with them to ensure we are following their guidance.

"Due to the local picture and recent sharp rise in cases in the Medway area, the school is in a similar position to many other local schools who have had to close year groups, and in some cases, the whole school.

"We have continued to follow and regularly review the school's risk assessment, with the added measures of face coverings being worn by parents and staff and will take every precaution going forward to minimise risk as far as we possibly can."

Read more: All the latest news from Medway