As the UK shuts down to curb the spread of coronavirus, many of us will feel overwhelmed by the social-distancing measures enforced by the government.
But for schools, the situation could prove simply unmanageable - as many parents across the country are stretching the government’s definition of a “key worker” in an effort to secure provision for their children, according to heads.
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Asked on social media to share the “most strange/ridiculous” key worker jobs suggested by parents, primary school leaders said they had dealt with requests from a cheese maker, a hairdresser and a carpet fitter.
Tes has compiled 11 of the strangest requests below.
- Nail technician
- Tanning shop worker
- A mum that does qualify as a key worker - but her shift starts at 5pm
- Self-employed dog groomer
- Tree surgeon
- Cheese maker
- Coffee vending machine filler
- Carpet fitter
- Cleaner at Center Parcs (they are closed until mid-April)
- Sausage maker
- Hairdresser
Education secretary Gavin Williamson said last night on Twitter: “You should only send your child to school on Monday if you have to, because your work is critical to our Covid-19 response.
“If you are able to keep your child at home, you should.”