Schools in Cowbridge will stay closed until February half-term unless there is a "significant" drop in Covid cases across the country.

Previously schools across Wales were told they would re-open on 18 January at the earliest, but this date has been postponed following a review of the current national Coronavirus restrictions.

Education Minister Kirsty Williams said that schools will now be reviewed alongside the national measures every three weeks.

"We have decided to bring decision making on schools and colleges into line with our three week review timetable.

"That means will we next review the situation on 29 January, and remote learning will continue until then at least.

"Unless we see a significant reduction in transmission before 29 January, then remote learning will have to continue until our next review date which conincides with the February half term," she said.

Vulnerable children and chidlren of critical workers will have access to their usual school or college.

Pupils at Cowbridge Comprehensive have been taking part in interactive lessons online from Wednesday 6 January.

"Many lessons have already been delivered in this way and we are prioritising examination classes as the first priority," wrote headteacher Mrs Thomas in an update.

The school also tweeted pictures of staff preparing online lessons, saying: "Our support staff have been really busy this week following the announcement from the Welsh Government getting ready for the next stages of blended learning."

Y Bon Faen Primary School also wrote an online update: "To our amazing pupils working from home.

"We're always here to help you, to support you, to encourage you. Email, contact us on the Google Classroom or Seesaw.

"Just do your very best and let us know if you need anything. Take care, stay safe, keep learning."

The Education Minister said this time will be used to work out how and when schools can re-open for some face-to-face teaching.

"During this period we will work together to look at all the possibilities to look at a phases and safe return of some pupils, such as those sturggling for qualifications or for younger children who find distance learnning the most difficult," said Ms Williams.

"We're taking this action today becuae this new variant is more infectious and is leading to increased numbers of people being hospitalised."