The Prime Minister said the objective is now to slow the spread of coronavirus and as such, schools will close until further notice.

However, schools will still need to look after the children of key workers – such as NHS staff, emergency staff and delivery workers – as well as the most vulnerable pupils. The government is now working with nurseries and private schools to help this happen.

Johnson added that a national voucher system for children eligible for free school meals will be put in place. Exams such as GCSE’s and A-Levels won’t take place in May and June.

He also said that children shouldn’t be left with older people such as grandparents, though he acknowledged this will be very difficult for working parents.

It comes as the death toll from coronavirus in the UK has risen to 104.

Earlier today, it was announced that schools and nurseries in Wales and Scotland would close from Friday.