Norfolk School Closures: Severe Weather Forces Dozens of Schools to Shut
Winter Weather Causes Widespread School Disruption in Norfolk
Snow and ice are causing more disruption across Norfolk this morning as 30 schools are closed. Nearly 30 schools have been closed or partly shut across Norfolk due to snow and ice as temperatures in the county have dropped as low as -9C overnight. The closures have affected thousands of pupils and their families as the county grapples with hazardous conditions during the first week back after the Christmas holidays.
Emergency Closures Across the County
Norfolk County Council’s emergency closure page has been updated throughout the day with new additions as schools assess safety conditions. Hall School is closed to all pupils due to adverse weather conditions and site safety, whilst Harford Manor School is unable to make site safe for students due to snow levels and extreme temperatures predicted overnight, with the school fully closed to staff and students. Include Schools Norfolk, with both Norwich and Kings Lynn schools, closed Tuesday 6th January for both pupils and staff due to adverse weather conditions affecting safe travel to and from the school sites, as well as the freezing temperatures making the school site unsafe.
Heating Failures Compound Weather Problems
Beyond the icy conditions, several schools face additional challenges with mechanical failures. Due to an unexpected major heating fault West Walton Primary will be fully closed for emergency repairs on Tuesday 6th January 2026. Freethorpe Community Primary School faces full school and preschool closure due to boiler fault and no heating, whilst Greenpark Academy has heating failure in the main school building. Reedham Primary And Nursery School will remain fully closed due to heating issues and no school dinner service until Thursday 7.1.26.
Delayed Openings and Safety Measures
Some schools have opted for delayed openings rather than full closures. Due to forecast temperatures tonight and in the morning and safety of staff/families arriving into school and the safety of the site, Drayton Infant will open at the later time of 10am on Tuesday 6th January, with gates open from 10am-10.20am for children to arrive. Parents are advised to check the Norfolk County Council website regularly for updates and to contact their child’s school directly for the latest information.
Significance for Families and Education
The widespread closures highlight the vulnerability of educational infrastructure to extreme weather events. With a weather warning in place until later today and temperatures not expected to go above freezing all day, parents and carers should remain vigilant for further announcements. Schools have implemented remote learning where possible, with many providing online resources through platforms such as Class Dojo to ensure educational continuity. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of robust emergency planning and communication systems between schools and families during severe weather conditions.