With more bad weather expected into the New Year, Kent County Council (KCC) revised its guidance to schools earlier this year to help head teachers and governing body chairmen make advanced preparations so they can open as usual.

KCC Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, Sarah Hohler, said: “We rely on our head teachers and governing body chairmen to make the right decision for their school. In exceptionally bad weather, closure is the only option and we fully understand this. I know that every effort is made to keep schools open.

“The guidance provides a step-by-step checklist to help schools prepare for the winter. Their efforts are supported by Kent Highway Services and others who strive to keep the nearby roads and paths cleared and salted.

“In the past, where schools opened and children were not able to get in, this reflected badly on the school’s attendance figures. I’m pleased that issue has been clarified by the coalition government and schools will be recognised and not penalised for doing their bit to keep schools open.”