Essex County Council statement after Government announces schools to close

Following the Government’s announcement schools in England are to close from Friday afternoon, here is a statement from Cllr Ray Gooding, Cabinet Member for Education at Essex County Council.

Cllr Ray Gooding, Cabinet Member for Education at Essex County Council, said:

“The Government has announced that schools will close to the vast majority of pupils until further notice from Friday afternoon.

“As the Prime Minister said, the judgement of the experts is that this is the right time to do so.

“The exception to this will be the children of key workers, such as NHS staff, police officers, delivery drivers, who would otherwise have to stay away from work, and also the most vulnerable children – those who have a social worker, or have an Education Health and Care Plan.

“Early year providers, nurseries and sixth form colleges will be expected to support this plan.

“There will be meals for those who receive free school meals. Exams will not take place in May and June, but the government has said it will ensure pupils will get the qualifications they need.

“We are anticipating further guidance from the Government imminently, and we will immediately begin working with schools on arrangements in Essex.

“We understand that families, teachers and school employees will have many questions and will be understandably worried about the situation. I would like to reassure everyone that we will be doing all we can to support those affected and share more information as it becomes available.

“The point of all of this is to contribute to the delay of coronavirus, and stay below the critical threshold when the NHS is placed under intolerable pressure.”