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Only One Parent Needs To Be Key Worker For Child To Attend School

Only One Parent Needs To Be Key Worker For Child To Attend School

The UK Government has also released a full list of key workers

Claire Reid

Claire Reid

Children will be able to go to school after today if one of their parents is a key worker, the government has confirmed.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that schools in the UK would be closing after today (Friday 20 March) in an attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

However, he went on to say that some schools would stay open to look after the children of 'key workers' - those who do vital jobs, such as NHS staff, delivery drivers and teachers.

Other key workers include people working in food production, police, fire fighters, essential financial services, undertakers, government workers and religious staff.

PA

The Department of Education has released a full list of key workers, which you can read here.

Alongside the closures, all exams - including A Levels - have been cancelled.

In a statement about the closures, education secretary Gavin Williamson said: "Fighting coronavirus and protecting the vulnerable and our NHS are the Government's top priorities right now. That's why we are asking schools, nurseries and colleges to close - except for vulnerable children and the children of key workers.

"We are facing increasingly extraordinary circumstances, but by asking schools to support our key workers and vulnerable children I am confident we will help beat this virus.

"I am deeply grateful for the civic spirit and dedication of everyone working in education, and I will continue to provide my full support throughout this crisis."

The statement went on to say that children who are eligible for free school means will be able to collect meals from one of the schools that is open or collect a voucher that can be used in supermarkets or local shops.

As yet, Williamson hasn't said when schools will open.

Let's all bring some positivity, support and fun to anyone who might find themselves in isolation as a result of the coronavirus spread. Need some entertainment? Join Isolation Nation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coronasupport/

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: uk news, coronavirus