Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, teachers have been at the front line. They have supported children of key workers and those learning from home. Then as schools opened to all pupils put themselves at great risk to ensure children and young people got the education they need.

This Government has treated them with utter contempt. They make huge announcements at the last minute and then scramble to clarify their position. We’ve seen this with testing and arrangements for the beginning of term in January.

When one council decided it was in their communities best interests to close their schools, they were threatened with legal action. Our schools, teachers and young people deserve better than this continued chaos.

I hope one day soon Gavin Williamson treats schools and teachers with the respect they deserve and have quite frankly earned this year after putting their own health and that of their families at risk to ensure children are educated throughout this year.

The Government should hang its head in shame.