Why were schools closed during Storm Amy without approval?

The Education Authority made the decision to close schools during Storm Amy without prior consultation or approval from the Education Minister or senior officials.

What problems arose from the Storm Amy school closures?

Late notifications caused significant disruption, confusion about closure zones, and communication failures between the Education Authority and the Department of Education.

What changes are recommended after Storm Amy's school closures?

Recommendations include informing schools of proposed closures no later than 8:00 pm the night before to prevent future disruption.

Home / Education / Storm Amy Chaos: Schools Closed Without Minister's OK

Storm Amy Chaos: Schools Closed Without Minister's OK

28 Nov

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Summary

Education Authority closed schools without ministerial approval.
Late notifications caused significant disruption for students.
Review found communication failures and procedural concerns.

Storm Amy Chaos: Schools Closed Without Minister's OK

Schools were closed during Storm Amy without the prior approval of Education Minister Paul Givan or senior officials. The Education Authority (EA) decided to close schools in four counties at midday on Friday, October 3, due to an amber weather warning issued by the Met Office. However, a review by the Department of Education (DE) found this decision was made without consultation.

The review highlighted significant procedural and communication failures. Some schools received closure notifications very late, causing confusion, including inconsistent closures within the same county. Communication breakdowns occurred between the EA and the DE, with key department officials missing critical calls and voicemails regarding the closure decision.

Twelve recommendations have been proposed to prevent similar situations, including informing schools of proposed closures by 8:00 pm the night before. Despite some criticism, school principals praised the collective action and decision-making during the storm.

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