Classrooms could take a “few weeks” to fill when schools reopen next term, the education secretary has admitted.

Gavin Williamson conceded that there may not be a full turnout straight away, adding that his goal was to see children heading back to school “over the next few weeks”.

Speaking to the Evening Standard, he also said parents should avoid chatting with friends at the school gates after dropping their children off to help limit the spread of coronavirus.

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The education secretary said parents should show “understanding and consideration” as he continued his drive to get children back into England’s classrooms in September.

The return to school is a key test for the education secretary, who is already under pressure following the U-turn over A-level and GCSE grades.

Schools are introducing measures including one-way systems and staggered start times to prevent gatherings of people which could potentially spread the virus.

Mr Williamson said: “We’re asking all parents to show understanding and consideration to the whole school community.

“Most schools have put in place staggered starts to make sure that there’s a swift and good flow-through of parents, and we just ask people to be respectful of the systems that are being put into place.

“We’d ask parents just to be really considerate, make sure they’re able to drop their children off and then get on with all the tasks of their day.”