Due to the coronavirus outbreak, schools, colleges and childcare providers will be closed to the majority of pupils until further notice. This applies to both state-funded and independent schools.
The reason for closing schools is that the fewer children making the journey to school, and the fewer children in educational settings, the lower the risk that the virus can spread and infect vulnerable individuals in wider society.
Children of critical workers and vulnerable children
Schools and other educational establishments, remain safe places for children. Schools, colleges, nurseries, childminders and other registered childcare settings have therefore been asked to remain open for children of critical workers and vulnerable children where they can.
Childcare providers, schools and colleges are also encouraged to continue to look after critical workers’ children and vulnerable children throughout the Easter holidays.
The Department for Education (DfE) has published a document telling educational establishments which children should continue to be cared for.
Children of critical workers and vulnerable children whose school is unable to stay open.
The DfE are expecting the majority of settings to stay open for the children of critical workers and vulnerable children so they can continue to attend their usual provider, but acknowledge this will be impossible for some – such as small rural schools.
Where a setting is unable to stay open, the DfE will work with the local educational authority, regional school commissioners and neighbouring providers to find an alternative setting for their pupils.
Where the alternative setting is not nearby the Local Education Authority (Kent County Council) will provide transport arrangements to support them.
If your child’s school or childcare setting is closed to you and you need help finding provision at this time please contact:
For nursery and childcare settings:
Email – kentcfis@theeducationpeople.org
Telephone – 03000 41 23 23
For school settings:
Email – emergencyschoolplaces@kent.gov.uk
Telephone – 03000 41 21 21
Department for Education
https://www.gov.uk/…/closure-of-educational-settings-information-for-parents-and-carers