ALL SCHOOLS in Wales will be closed from next week, Education Minister Kirsty Williams has announced.

Ms Williams said the Easter holidays will be brought forward, with schools closing for the break after Friday, March 20.

Plans will now be drawn up to use schools to support those most in need, including people involved in the immediate response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Ms Williams said: "We are in an unprecedented period, one that is changing hour-by-hour, and governments around the world are having to make quick decisions.

"Firstly, I would like to extend my gratitude to all those working in our education and childcare settings for the critical work you have been undertaking, under incredible pressure to support our children and young people.

"You have been at the front-line in supporting wider efforts to prepare for the challenges we are all now facing and I am incredibly grateful and proud.

"Today, I can announce we are bringing forward the Easter break for schools in Wales. Schools across Wales will close for statutory provision of education at the latest on March 20.

"I have been clear up to now that the continuity of education and the wellbeing of our learners has been at the heart of my decision making. This will always be the case.

"From next week, schools will have a new purpose. They will help support those most in need, including people involved in the immediate response to the coronavirus outbreak.

"I am working with my colleagues in the Cabinet, with government officials and our partners in local government to develop and finalise these plans.

"The key areas we are looking at are supporting and safeguarding the vulnerable and ensuring continuity of learning.

"We are looking in detail at how we can support and safeguard all those who benefit from free school meals and children with additional learning needs. I will make sure you are kept up-to-date.

"While this will apply to schools, childcare settings are expected to remain open until we have definitive advice from the Chief Medical Officer and from Public Health Wales that any closures are required. Parents can, and should, speak with their usual childcare providers if they need care over the Easter holidays."

A further announcement regarding the effect this will have on school exams is expected shortly.

"From the outset, the decisions being taken have been focused on public health advice, and it is right that these science-based recommendations are front and centre of the decisions being made," said Ms Williams.

"The announcement I am making today will help ensure an orderly closure for schools so that they have the time to prepare. However, I am conscious that the SAGE Committee and COBR meet this afternoon, and I will of course be listening closely to see if advice changes and any further urgent decisions about school closures are needed.

"Today’s decision will help ensure an orderly closure, so schools have time to prepare ahead of the early break.

"My main message for everyone is to stay safe and stay well. We will work together and we will face this outbreak together."