Schools advised to close on Friday lunchtime due to risk of severe snow

Shropshire County Council has advised its schools that severe snow is expected on the afternoon of Friday 1 February 2008.

The Met Office has warned that there is a 60% chance of severe disruption on Friday afternoon. Secondary schools outside Shrewsbury and primary schools in rural areas have been advised to close after lunch tomorrow (Friday). Severndale Special School, whose children need special transport arrangements, have been advised not to open. Schools have also been advised to cancel trips and visits which would mean travelling on Friday afternoon.

Schools have also been advised on actions if there is snow lying on Monday morning.

Norrie Porter, Head of Premises and Planning said “The safety of children and staff has to be out first priority, but we are aware that school closures cause disruption for parents. In this case, we have taken the decision to advise schools to close to safeguard children.

We know that, sometimes, forecast snow doesn't materialise to the extent the Met Office expects and this leads to criticism of schools by some parents. However, on the balance of probabilities (60% by Met Office forecast), there will be severe disruption later on Friday. If we wait until the first snowflake, experience has shown that there is then not enough time to organise transport to get children home without difficulties.

I hope that parents will understand that schools are trying to do their best for both parents and children by planning closures as far in advance as possible.”

Ian Budd, Assistant Director, said “We will be monitoring the situation closely overnight and throughout the day tomorrow. If there are any changes to the situation we will let schools and parents know as soon as possible. The safety of children and staff will be the driving force for any decisions”.

31 January 2008