SOME primary schools in Somerset are closed today (January 4) - and headteachers are unable to give a 'definitive' answer about reopening.

Parents of pupils at Bath & Wells Multi Academy Trust (BWMAT) schools in Taunton and Bridgwater received a letter yesterday (January 3) explaining the schools were staying closed to protect the "safety" of the community.

The headteachers are concerned because Somerset has moved into tier 4 restrictions after a rise in Covid-19 cases.

The schools are currently awaiting further guidance.

The letter said: "Please rest assured that the staff teams in all schools will continue to spend time tomorrow reviewing the risk assessment in light of the latest advice and we will endeavour to follow the most current guidance to ensure everyone’s safety.

"Once again, this information has reached us very late and as you would expect again requires more careful consideration and planning.

"As always, we will endeavour to follow this guidance, but as stated previously, we will only do what is safe for our children, staff and communities and will only implement new plans and systems when we are confident it is appropriate to do so.

"With less than 24 hours to go until the start of the term, we cannot tell you how sorry we are that we cannot give a definitive answer on whether our schools will open yet.

"We realise that changes to school provision are often challenging. We would like to take the opportunity to thank you all for your continued understanding and support."

Staplegrove Church School, Cheddon Fitzpaine Church School, St James Church School, Norton Fitzwarren Church School, Bishops Lydeard Church School, St Andrews Church School, St John & St Francis Church School and Wembdon St George Church School are closed today.

The County Gazette has contacted BWMAT to see if any further guidance has been given.