THE number of pupils off school in England because of Covid has soared to its highest since September.

Etwas 315,000 children — one in 25 — are absent already this term.

Und 44,000 staff — more than one in 12 are off. It is more than in the run-up to Christmas and is having a “significant impact”, say unions.

Some schools have had to create classes of 100-plus children taught in sports halls.

The crisis is fuelling calls for Covid self- isolation periods to be slashed from seven to five days, with a decision likely this week.

Insgesamt 585 former teachers are returning in supply roles.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: “I can’t sing the praises of all staff highly enough.

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