ALL Scottish schools - including those in Helensburgh and Lomond - "will close by the end of this week", it has been anounced today.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said in an update this afternoon that she "cannot promise that they (schools) will reopen before the summer holidays".

Ms Sturgeon added that the "very difficult" decision would change society and the economy.

She said there could be “a lot of local flexibility” with councils possibly approaching school closures differently, adding: “There will not necessarily be a one size fits all approach.”

Argyll and Bute Council earlier said that all schools within the local authority area "remain open at this stage", but that is expected to change now in line with national guidance.

Meanwhile, pupils and staff at Lomond School's boarding house in Helensburgh are self-isolating for the next fortnight due to concerns over the coronavirus.

Johanna Urquhart, principal at Lomond School, said: “Following guidance around family isolation from the government, and with support from Health Protection Scotland, we’re taking precautionary steps to ensure the health and well-being of our pupils.

“Therefore, the pupils and staff within our boarding house, which is very much a home away from home, will be self-isolating for the next two weeks.

"The small number of pupils who have developed minor symptoms are being cared for in separation from the rest of the house.

“Most of the boarding pupils are in good health and are continuing studies digitally as we have been preparing for across the school.

“Like all schools, we’re doing everything we can to minimise any negative impact from coronavirus.”

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