Today's blog focuses on schools' efforts to fight the spread of Coronavirus.
Coronavirus
On Monday (23 March) schools opened their gates only to children of key workers and vulnerable children as part of the wider efforts to help keep public services running and fight the spread of coronavirus.
The DfE continues to work closely with schools, local authorities, schools, academy trusts and teaching unions as well as employers and businesses to ensure it has the best possible understanding of the situation on the ground and can react accordingly.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
We have asked parents to be responsible and keep their children at home to help schools focus on supporting those who need a place most – vulnerable children and workers critical to our response to coronavirus.
Early indications are that the number of children attending school today is low, and we thank parents for making the right choice and playing their part in our fight against coronavirus. People must do everything they can to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.
We are closely monitoring the situation on the ground and will continue to work with local authorities to ensure schools get the help and support they need over the challenging weeks and months ahead.
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