Thomas Telford School head defends snow day closure decision

Thomas Telford School and its nursery, in Old Park, Telford, was closed on Monday because of the snow and ice.

Headteacher Sir Kevin Satchwell made the decision to close the school because of the weather forecast and the condition of the roads around the school.

A spokeswoman for the school said: "It was the case that the school had not closed before in 21 years.

"Every school in the county will only close if absolutely necessary. It's a big decision and not one that is made lightly.

"But the head felt it was too difficult for the students to get in. It was the forecast of treacherous road conditions around the school which led to his decision.

"The students at the school come from as far away as Bilston, Wolverhampton and all across Telford. We have quite a wide catchment area and safety in travelling is something we would consider."

Sir Kevin's decision came a day after Martin Stott, headteacher at Old Hall School in Wellington, criticised schools for making the decision to close their doors.

Old Hall was open during heavy snowfall on Friday and remained open this week after Mr Stott said he believed staying open in adverse weather conditions helped to prepare pupils for life beyond school.

He said: "I feel we have a sense of responsibility to the parents of children who work hard to get on. Instilling in them a tenacious approach, where obstacles and problems are there to be overcome and solved, is an important life lesson.

"We're not suggesting people embark on dangerous or foolhardy journeys, all we're saying is our parents take comfort in the knowledge we will always be open, regardless of conditions."

Thomas Telford School reopened as normal yesterday after the road and pathways on the school site were cleared by grounds staff.

While many local schools were closed on Monday several, as far apart as Idsall in Shifnal and Abraham Darby Academy in Madeley, managed to stay open.