Why isn't my school closed today?

Deciding to close a school is a big decision, and whilst many pupils will likely be hoping for a ‘snow day’, there are lots of factors are taken into account when deciding to close.

Before deciding to open or close a school during severe weather, the Principal, or an agreed deputy, such as the Chair of the Board of Governors or a senior teacher, will consider the following:

can pupils/staff access the school building safely?

can pupils/staff be evacuated in an emergency?

in an emergency, could the Emergency Services access the school?

is the area where pupils are dropped off safe?

can buses and vehicles transporting things such as meals or services that the school relies on reach the school?

are there enough teachers to adequately supervise pupils?

local weather forecasts and road conditions, including those for areas from which staff will be travelling

Telling parents the school is closed

Schools should have an agreed communications plan in place for telling parents and staff, about exceptional closures.

These forms of communication may include use of a texting service, email, local/regional media or telephone.

Your child’s school should make sure you are aware of the method(s) of communication that they will use in cases of exceptional closure. For schools that make use of texting or email, you will need to make sure that your child’s school has your up-to-date mobile telephone/email details.

If you have any questions about your child’s school you should contact the school directly.

Information from **NI DirectNI Direct