Education Secretary Gavin Williamson comments on attendance figures

“It is encouraging to see that the vast majority of schools remain open, with more than 7.2 million pupils estimated to be attending schools last week gaining all the benefits of being in the classroom.

“Only a small minority of pupils are currently self-isolating and there is remote education provision in place for the short time they are unable to attend school.

“I’m hugely reassured schools have the right protective measures in place to reduce the spread of the virus, and are only asking close contacts of confirmed cases to self-isolate. I want to thank teachers and leaders for all they are doing to make sure pupils can access the education they deserve.”