According to the latest data, Essex pupils missed more than 870,000 days of face-to-face teaching in the autumn term after having to self-isolate or shield due to Covid. Robin Bevan, headteacher at Southend High School for Boys, said: “Schools and colleges have contributed superbly throughout the pandemic. “Despite the challenges, pupils at Southend High School for Boys have thrived in their learning. “The self-isolation of close contacts – sending home bubbles – has been very effective in reducing community transmission, even if it has also proved to be a frustrating experience. “We now welcome the clarity provided by the Government regarding how schools will operate in the autumn and hope this proves to be a step in the right direction.”