Schools have shut down during the freezing weather rather than risk being sued by angry parents.

Essex county councillor Iris Pummell, executive councillor for education, said the claim culture was a major factor behind many of the 50 south Essex schools closing down over the past few days.

She believed the schools were only trying to protect themselves against legal action by parents.

While heating problems and burst pipes used to be the concern of headteachers in the past, letters from solicitors after a child has fallen on ice are the new fear.

Mrs Pummell said: "Nowadays parents are very apt to take legal action against a school if anything happens to their children and schools are very aware of this.

"It's down to the headteacher to make the decision whether the children are safe on their property."

Fortunately, most schools forced to close due to the adverse weather were due to reopen today.

Despite heavy snowfalls on Wednesday, many more schools were able to remain open, only closing yesterday when snow and ice failed to clear overnight.

One headteacher agreed that each school took the decision to remain open or close on its individual situation. He said: "It's down to the headteacher to make a reasonable judgment in terms of the health and safety of students and staff."

Published Friday, January 10, 2003

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