This is who is classed as a key worker as schools across the UK close

Schools, colleges and nurseries across the UK are now closed for all pupils except those of key workers and vulnerable children.

The Prime Minister announced on Friday 20 March that schools across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are to close to pupils “until further notice”, in an effort to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said that schools and nurseries would close on Friday (20 Mar), and that it was unclear if they would reopen before the summer holidays.

What is a key worker?

The Prime Minister announced that schools are to close for all except those of key workers and vulnerable children, with the government having now released an official full list of who falls into this category.

Gov.uk explains: “Parents whose work is critical to the COVID-19 response include those who work in health and social care and in other key sectors outlined below. Many parents working in these sectors may be able to ensure their child is kept at home. And every child who can be safely cared for at home should be.

Please, therefore, follow these key principles:

- If it is at all possible for children to be at home, then they should be.

-If a child needs specialist support, is vulnerable or has a parent who is a critical worker, then educational provision will be available for them.

-Parents should not rely for childcare upon those who are advised to be in the stringent social distancing category such as grandparents, friends, or family members with underlying conditions.

-Parents should also do everything they can to ensure children are not mixing socially in a way which can continue to spread the virus. They should observe the same social distancing principles as adults.

-Residential special schools, boarding schools and special settings continue to care for children wherever possible.