SCHOOLS in Flintshire will shift to remote learning for the final three days of term.

In line with schools in Wrexham and Denbighshire, Flintshire schools will close at the end of this Friday.

It comes amid growing concerns over rising Covid infections - which could see children and their families being forced to self-isolate over Christmas.

As a result, from Monday (December 20) to Wednesday (December 22), schools will move to online learning.

Claire Homard, Flintshire Council's chief officer for education, said: “This decision – which has the backing of head teachers – will allow staff to use a blended approach to deliver education, whilst also providing head teachers with the discretion to invite groups of learners to attend school for face-to-face learning where required particularly in examination year groups in secondary schools.

"Children of key workers and vulnerable children will be permitted to attend school for the last few days of term (as determined by their school calendar) if no alternative arrangements can be made. Further information regarding arrangements will be issued directly by head teachers to parents.

"This decision has not been taken lightly. The council expects the workforce situation to deteriorate as the week progresses so has made this decision now to give parents and carers as much time as possible to make arrangements."

Council leader, Councillor Ian Roberts, added: “Flintshire County Council will do what we believe is necessary to safeguard our children, our staff and our communities. Coronavirus cases have increased considerably and, as a result, staff absence in schools has increased. This does not just include teachers but a wide range of support staff too.

"Our young people will continue their education and will switch to blended learning for the last few days of term. We share the concerns of government around the Omicron variant and are aware that many parents and staff are extremely worried. We must consider people’s wellbeing after a very difficult year.

“Our education team continues to work closely with head teachers and all staff in schools and I would like to thank our school staff, governing bodies and parents for their continued work and care during a very difficult time.”