Coronavirus: Winsford and Middlewich schools to close from Friday

The measure was confirmed by Education Secretary Gavin Williamson in the House of Commons today, Wednesday.

The closure will be in place until further notice for all pupils except children of key workers and the most vulnerable, Mr Williamson said.

He told MPs: “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.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson added: "This is a balanced judgement and one we've kept under constant review.

"We must now apply further downward pressure on that upward curve by closing the schools.

"After schools shut their gates from Friday afternoon, they will remain closed for the vast majority of pupils until further notice.

"The objective is to slow the spread of the virus, and we judge that this is the right moment to do that.

"We also need to keep the NHS going, we need health workers who are parents to keep going to work."

Exams will not take place as planned in May and June, but pupils will 'get the academic qualifications they need'.

Mr Johnson says further measures will be brought in to 'keep the economy going'.

He adds: "Children should not be left with older relatives who are particularly vulnerable.

"I know that will be difficult and I want to thank families for their sacrifice."

Mr Williamson said the Government will put in place a national voucher system for children eligible for free school meals.

He added: “We will give schools the flexibility to provide meals or vouchers to children who are eligible for free school meals.

"Some schools are already doing this and we will make sure those costs are reimbursed.

“As soon as possible, we will put in place a national voucher system for every child who is eligible for free school meals.”