Coronavirus: Latest on Fife schools closures

The Scottish Government has updated guidelines so now no pupils and teachers should be in schools.Previously, Fife schools were set to open their doors this morning (Monday) for any 4th, 5th and 6th year pupils to come in to complete coursework, where necessary.However, new advice over the weekend from the government said that no pupils should be in schools.

Fife Council are working to set up child care facilities for key workers.Executive Director of Education Carrie Lindsay, tweeted on Sunday night: “Updated advice from Scottish Government has now been passed to all head teachers to let staff and parents know that neither staff nor pupils should attend schools from tomorrow, March 23.

“This is a changing picture with updated scientific and health advice.”Ms Lindsay added: “The following days and weeks are going to be a very new way of living for all of us. SQA exams have been cancelled. Our staff will still be hard at work trying to do the very best for your children in these very difficult times.“I want to tell all those young people due to sit exams this year – we are here for you.

“We know the work that you have put in to prepare for your SQA exams and please believe that learning will never be wasted.

“We are still getting information from the SQA but we are all determined that the class of 2020 will not be disadvantaged.“To all of our children and young people out there, this is a new way of working.

“It’s not an extended Easter holiday, and we know that you’ll be connecting with your teachers to keep learning.

“For the class of 2020 we want to make sure you access the materials provided for your learning.“We’ll keep everyone updated as much as we can in the coming days.

“In the meantime follow the national guidance and the NHS advice on how to keep yourselves and others safe.”Ms Lindsay also said: “Information on our Children’s Activity Centres for key worker’s children will be sent out on Monday. Hoping to start as early next week as we can manage. We are trying to ensure a model for the longer term that meets the needs of our young people.”