ST Helens College will close tomorrow until further notice.

The announcement follows the prime minister's statement yesterday evening that education providers in the UK will close until further notice.

In a statement posted online, principal Monica Box said: "The College will remain open today as normal, and will also remain open tomorrow for students to access their tutors, work and collect anything they require in order to continue their studies remotely.

"Please note there will be no formal classes on Friday, as tutors will be preparing to support students remotely during the closure.

"The duration of the closure has not yet been defined, but the Prime Minister has stated that any disruption will be kept to an absolute minimum and will be informed by scientific advice.

"Although the College buildings will be closed, College staff will be working from home and available to provide online support through the usual College systems.

"It has also been announced that GCSE and A level exams will not take place this year but that students who were due to sit these exams will not suffer any detriment as a result.

"We await further information about how the Government intends to ensure that students achieve the qualifications their work deserves. As soon as we are clear about how this will happen, our students will be contacted.

"Today and tomorrow we will be doing all we can to finalise our plans to provide support to students during the closure period.

"Thank you for your support and understanding in this matter. We will provide regular updates based on the information received from the Government."