The government has published, and is regularly updating, information regarding school closures which can be found here:
This includes the following information about school places for children of critical workers. Please note that there is no requirement for these children to attend school and the guidance is clear that every child who can be safely cared for at home, should be.
5.1 Will I be counted as a critical worker?
Critical workers include NHS staff, police, farmers and food retail workers, who need to be able to go out to work.
Children with a parent or carer who is listed on the government’s critical worker list should be considered for a school place.
If children can stay safely at home, they should, to limit the chance of the virus spreading. That is why the government has asked parents to keep their children at home, wherever possible, and asked schools to remain open only for those children who absolutely need to attend.
5.2 If only one parent or carer is a critical worker, can I send my children in to school?
Children with at least one parent or carer who is critical to the COVID-19 response can attend school if required.
However, many families with a parent or carer working in critical sectors will be able to ensure their child is kept at home. Every child who can be safely cared for at home should be, to limit the chance of the virus spreading.
5.3 I am a critical worker or my child is vulnerable. Do I have to send them to school?
Children with a parent or carer who is listed on the government’s critical worker list should be considered for a school place. However, many parents working in these sectors will be able to ensure their child is kept at home. Every child who can be safely cared for at home should be, to limit the chance of the virus spreading.
Department for Education
