This is how schools will looks after vulnerable children and kids of key workers during the coronavirus pandemic

As schools begin to close their doors in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, some children will be able to continue going to school on Monday 23 March.

This is everything you need to know about the plans in place to take care of vulnerable children, and children of key workers.

Schools open for children of key workers

Schools across the UK close their doors on Friday 20 March, until further notice, in an attempt to slow the spread of the Covid-19 strain of the coronavirus.

However, children of key workers and vulnerable children will still be able to attend school from Monday (23 March) onwards.

Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary John Swinney explained in a statement on 19 March that the children who would be allowed back into schools and nurseries would “have continuing access to all-age learning and childcare”.

In an effort to support key workers, like NHS staff, police and supermarket workers who need to be able to go to work, a skeleton network of schools and nurseries will remain open.

Children of key workers will qualify for continued schooling even if only one parent is classified as a key worker.

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.”

Who are “vulnerable” children?

Vulnerable children are also included in this exception, and are classified as children who have a social worker, and those with Education, Health and Care Plans - a legal document that outlines the child’s special education needs, and the support they require.

It was explained in the notice that “children who do not fall into these groups should remain at home with appropriate care”.

(Photo: WHO)

What schools will remain open?

The government asked that schools, colleges, nurseries, childminders and other registered childcare settings remain open for vulnerable children and for kids of critical workers.

“We understand that some may be unable to do so, especially if they are experiencing severe staff shortages. We will work with local areas to use neighbouring schools, colleges and childcare providers to support vulnerable children and children of critical workers,” the government said.

This also applies to independent schools and boarding schools as well.

If you are a parent of a child that qualifies to continue going to school, but your local school or childcare provider has closed, the government states that they will work with the local educational authority, regional school commissioners and neighbouring providers to find an alternative setting.

You should contact your local authority, who will then redirect you to a local school in your area that your child, or children, can attend.