Several UK schools are allowing pupils to arrive late on Monday after England's World Cup last-16 match against co-hosts Mexico, which kicks off at 1am due to the time difference. The game could run until nearly 4am if it goes to a penalty shootout.
Tuchel Encourages Parents to Let Children Watch
Following England's dramatic last-gasp victory over DR Congo on Wednesday, head coach Thomas Tuchel said: "There's so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch." He urged parents to "write an excuse for school and let them watch."
Education Secretary's Stance
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson insisted that pupils should still attend school on time despite the early kick-off. She told BBC Newsnight: "I'm not going to make requests on parents around bedtime," but added: "please let's try and get our kids in on Monday too." A Downing Street spokesperson said: "Parents will make their own decisions... We want everyone to enjoy the game, but children should be in school on Monday."
Schools' Responses
Several schools have already responded by permitting later starts or arranging screenings. Steve Heal, headteacher of Malmesbury Church of England Primary School in Wiltshire, said: "I've asked parents not to tell their children the result before they arrive at school because we want everyone to experience the ups and downs together. School really matters and attendance is so important, but we also know just how significant these international sporting events are for children."
London Colney Primary School will screen a full replay at 9am in the school hall, while Smith's Wood primary in the West Midlands will show highlights during assembly. Elburton Primary School will invite pupils in early for an 'as-live' screening at 7.40am. Whipton Barton Federation in Exeter will permit children to come in football kits and posted on Facebook: "Every child in school on Monday will be automatically entered into our raffle to win one of two World Cup footballs."
Schools Allowing Late Arrivals
- Purwell Primary School (Hitchin, Hertfordshire) – Registers open until 10.30am.
- Castle Hill Primary School (Basingstoke, Hampshire) – Pupils can arrive from 9.30am instead of 8.35am.
- Greenland Primary School (County Durham) – Pupils can arrive any time until 10am without being marked late.
- Bloemfontein Primary School (County Durham) – Registers open until 10am.
- Burnhope Primary School (County Durham) – Pupils can arrive up until 10am.
The schools in County Durham posted on social media: "the opportunity to enjoy the occasion without worrying about the school run quite so early." Purwell Primary School wrote on Facebook: "While it is unlikely that many primary-aged children will stay up to watch the game, we appreciate that some families may have a later night than usual."
Divided Opinions Among Parents
The decision has proved divisive. One parent commented: "You must be joking, the children's wellbeing and education comes first." Another said: "Let the children live life, one match is not going to ruin their education."
