Verwood First, Hillside First, Trinity First and Emmanuel Middle School, along with all other schools across the UK, will close their doors to most pupils at 3pm on Friday 20th March to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The government made the announcement on Wednesday evening as part of the ongoing response to the pandemic.

Children whose parents are ‘key workers’ – and vulnerable children – will still be able to attend, with all schools running a limited number of classes.

Examples of these workers include NHS staff, police and supermarket delivery drivers who need to be able to go to work to support the country’s fight to tackle coronavirus. Vulnerable children include those who have a social worker and those with Education, Health and Care Plans – a legal document that describes a child’s special educational needs and the support they require.

The government says that children who do not fall into these groups should remain at home with appropriate care.

The schools will provide pupils with work to do while at home and have been in touch with parents to advise them of the process for getting the necessary information.

The government has also advised that nurseries should close at the end of this week.

Verwood Day Nursery says it will hold a meeting on Thursday to look at the options before providing a further update.