Schools have been advised to stay open following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
The Department for Education has issued guidance stating that schools should remain operational during the national period of mourning. Further guidance will be given to head teachers as to whether school gates should close at any point in the coming days as the country mourns the passing of Britain's longest serving monarch.
It is likely that pupils will be allowed to observe the official national day of mourning for the Queen's death on the day of her funeral. More information will be issued by the DfE once details of the funeral are confirmed.
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During the coming days, teachers may consider conducting special activities, holding assemblies or adapting lessons to commemorate the life of the Queen. Meanwhile, schools across the country have paid tribute to the monarch, with many posting messages on social media.
Framwellgate School, in Durham, said on Twitter: "The staff and students of Framwellgate School Durham are deeply saddened at the passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Our sincere condolences and thoughts are with the royal family."
West Denton Primary School, in Newcastle, wrote: "We join the nation in mourning and extend our deepest condolences to Her Majesty The Queen's family at this very sad time." And Hadrian Park Primary School, in Wallsend, added: "It is with the greatest of sorrow and deep respect that we mark the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our prayers and sincere condolences are with the Royal Family at this very difficult time. Thank you for a life time of service, may you RIP."
Buckingham Palace has said royal mourning will be observed by members of the family, household staff and representatives of the royal household on official duties, together with troops committed to ceremonial duties.
The palace said on Friday morning: "Following the death of Her Majesty the Queen, it is His Majesty the King's wish that a period of royal mourning be observed from now until seven days after the Queen's funeral. The date of the funeral will be confirmed in due course."
Royal residences - including The Queen's Gallery and the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, and The Queen's Gallery in Edinburgh - will close until after the Queen's funeral. Balmoral Castle and Sandringham House, the Queen's private estates, will also close for this period.
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