Sheffield parents have their say on whether children should return to school

NHS England's national medical director, Professor Stephen Powis, said the Government should be wary about reopening schools too early, warning that scientists do not fully understand the extent of coronavirus transmission between children.

He said the ‘science is still evolving’ on how much children contribute toward virus spread, adding: “We do need to be cautious as we think of reopening schools.”

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Health Secretary Matt Hancock has vowed that the Government would only allow pupils to return when it was safe to do so.

Mr Hancock said: “We are not going to re-open schools if it isn't safe.

“Of course, as and when we reopen schools, our goal is to get back to the norm and the position as it was before.”

“It's important to remember the reason we had to take the decision to close schools was because of the impact of schools on transmission, not on the safety of children.”

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Discussing the issue on Facebook, Robert Michael Knight said: “Leaving lockdown too soon is a recipe for disaster, leave the kids at home, close the DIY places and other none essential outlets that a sneakily opening, for a few more weeks a least.”

Allan Wood said: “A massive problem is the fact that many youngsters have been ignoring the safety rules and there is the distinct possibility of the virus being taken into school by these non-conformers.”

Jenny Newton said: “When they have a cure then children should go back. Not before.

“Presuimg they are at the low risk of infection is not enough to risk opening schools.”

Sally Driscoll added: “I won't be risking my daughter for the sake for a few weeks, she will stay at home until I feel it’s safe for her to return.

“I know education is vital but so is being alive to gain that education its just not worth any risk.

“Kids don't understand social distancing they want to play and talk with their friends its down to us as parents/guardians to protect them as much as we can.”