Hundreds of schools across England and Wales have closed due to snowy weather, with more than 400 shut in Wales alone. In Birmingham, the city council has closed all of the schools it runs as snow continues to fall across central England.
Despite speculation, there has been no change in the rules governing school closures. Guidelines from education departments in England and Wales stress that schools can close only in truly exceptional circumstances, when there is no other option. Head teachers must make the decision based on their knowledge of the school and surrounding area, using common sense to assess risks and aiming to keep the school open whenever it is safe to do so.
Child welfare is a key consideration, including whether staff can travel safely—often over longer distances than pupils. The forecast for worsening conditions later in the day can also prompt closure. Health and safety laws give high priority to potentially hazardous conditions, such as icy playgrounds or insufficient heating. Schools without enough teachers may partially open.
Schools must have agreed communication methods to inform parents, guardians, staff, authorities, and the Department of Education about closures. Parents need sufficient notice to arrange alternative childcare, though this varies by family. If exams are scheduled, head teachers must discuss alternative arrangements with the awarding organisation, which may involve using other nearby buildings or rescheduling exams later in the year.
