ESSEX: Councillor says 'common sense - not snow sense'

ESSEX County councillor Stephen Castle, cabinet member for education, is going to be writing to all head teachers in the county asking them to think twice before closing their school due to the weather.

Cllr Castle said: "I can sympathise with head teachers that often a few centimetres of snow can result in travel chaos, but I would like to urge schools to stay open where possible and give children the chance to come to school and participate in a full-day of learning, especially considering exams are fast approaching.

"This cold weather is due to continue for at least another week and parents should be able to make the decision as to whether they feel their child should attend school, as opposed to having this decision made for them."

The letter to head teachers will ask them not to take the decision to close a school lightly, as many in the community rely upon schools being open as usual.

"Enabling schools to be open is critically important for working parents and their employers, as their contribution to business and the Essex economy is often dependent on their child care arrangements not being disrupted," added Cllr Castle.

"While I was at school, I looked forward to days where we were able to enjoy the snow with friends during the lunch break in a safe and fun manner. We should return to this traditional way of responding, where children are allowed and encouraged to embrace the joys a snowfall can bring.