Croydon Council has issued a statement following the news that all schools across the country will close from Friday until further notice, except children of key workers and the most vulnerable.

Announcing the news today Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "I want to provide parents, students and staff with the certainty they need.

"After schools shut their gates on Friday afternoon they will remain closed until further notice.

"This will be for all children except to those of key workers and where children who are most vulnerable."

Following the central Government announcement today (March 18) regarding school closures, Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning said: “We know how incredibly challenging this is for our children and families.

“Their safety and wellbeing is our absolute priority, and are working with schools and partners across Croydon to ensure that all our children and families can access the support that they need while schools are closed.

“We are developing a comprehensive package of support to ensure those children and families who need to, can still access food and other essential help and services during the school day.

“We all want to minimise disruption to our young people’s education and I know school staff have been working tirelessly to ensure that pupils can continue to access the school curriculum from home, through a broad range of resources.

“We understand that the Government plans to work with schools to ensure they remain open for a small number of children. These include those whose parents are key workers, so that their parents can maintain their vital roles in public service, and the most vulnerable. We will be working closely with our children and schools to continue to support them through this process.”