Headteachers in Hertfordshire have been urged to keep schools open if at all possible duringthe big freeze. A letter from John Harris, director of children, schools and families, to all headteachers in Comet country says: As this is now a prolonged perio

Headteachers in Hertfordshire have been urged to keep schools open if at all possible duringthe big freeze.

A letter from John Harris, director of children, schools and families, to all headteachers in Comet country says: "As this is now a prolonged period of disruption we would urge you to consider staying open if at all possible to ensure children are not out of school for any longer than necessary.

"We appreciate the difficult decision schools are faced with in terms of staff shortages and site safety and we do not expect you to put children or staff at undue risk. However, it is vital that we maintain the confidence and support of parents.

"The consequences of school closures have a serious knock-on effect for their working and care arrangements, as well as wider business continuity problems in Hertfordshire.

"Schools are advised to focus on the things they can control. If at all possible encourage staff to come in if they can safely do so and consider combining classes or providing group activities. Another possible option is staff offering to help out at any nearby school.

"Closing your school could be the right decision, where your judgement is that pupils or staff would face significant risks of serious injury in school or travelling to school. But remember that every lesson counts; and consider whether it would be reasonably practicable for you to keep your school open."

Fifteen schools currently remain closed on Friday in Stevenage and North Herts.

Only one school is closed in the Central Beds area of Comet country owing to the freezing weather.

Henlow Middle School, says Central Beds Council, is closed for the third day running because of the snow and ice. Gothic Mede Lower School in Arlesey opened at 9.30am but will close at 3pm.