Amid intensifying national debate about schooling, and calls by the Labour Party for an instant total lockdown, parents of local primary children are preparing for a first day of term tomorrow.

Secondary and college students will make a staggered start.

With London primaries closed, and some elsewhere making their own decision not to reopen, Wirral Council has issued a statement explaining the state of play in the borough now and how days to come will be monitored.

Councillor Wendy Clements, Chair Children, Young People and Education Committee said:

"As we're all too aware, COVID-19 hasbrought with it many challenges - not least of which is the impact it's had on our children and young people's education.

"I am confident that, as our children and young people return to school, settings will continue to do everything they can to make sure your child will be in a COVID secure environment.

"Time inschool is about more than just lessons,it helps to develop children 'all round' – increasing their communication skills, discovering new talents, and making friends for the future. The pandemic has highlighted just how important school is to our children.

"However, this is of course a rapidly shifting situation and we will be working closely with our educational settings to closely monitor the situation and be in a position to respond accordingly should the circumstances change."

Paul Boyce, Corporate Director of Children's Services confirmed the return to school arrangements:

"The magnificent efforts of all teachers and staff in all of our early years settings, schools and colleges have ensured that children and students have been able to access their education in settings that are COVID-19 secure. This will continue to be the case.

"However, the emergence of a new Covid variant and the resultant rising infection rates have required some immediate adjustment to plans for the new term.

"We understand that this is an ever-changing situation, but as it stands, we will not be taking action if parents decide not to send their children into school. We will continue to monitor this situation daily."

January Term:

All primary schools will be open from the first day of term.

The start of the school term for secondary and college students has been staggered:

Week beginning January 4 - Secondary schools will be open to children of critical workers and vulnerable students. Remote education will be prioritised for Years 11 and 13. Most schools have an inset day on January 4, making Tuesday, January 5 the first day of term.

January 11 - Secondary schools will be open to exam year groups, Years 11 and 13, as well as children of critical workers and vulnerable students.

January 18 - Face-to-face teaching begins for all students in secondary schools.