All schools in Wales and Scotland will close by Friday as part of ongoing procedures to contain the coronavirus outbreak.

The announcements came after Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, told the House of Commons during Prime Minister’s Questions today that further decisions on school closures were “to be taken imminently”

The Welsh Education Minister Kirsty Williams has stated that she is bringing forward the Easter break.

“Today’s decision will help ensure an orderly closure, so schools have time to prepare. Childcare centres are expected to remain open until advice is given to close them.

 

From next week, schools will have a “new purpose”. They will help support those most in need, including people involved in the immediate response to the coronavirus outbreak.

 

I am working with my colleagues in the cabinet, with government officials and our partners in local government to develop and finalise these plans.”

Headteachers body NAHT Cymru has welcomed this announcement, but has also added that advice on how schools can support vulnerable children in the community and children of key workers was ‘yet to be finalised’.

Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish First Minister has said the Scottish Government is still working out the finer detail of what this will all mean.

We will keep you updated with more announcements on this as they are published.

You can find the Welsh government website here.

Love from Katie & Team BBY. Xx