COLLEGE learners in Crewe have been told not to return for face-to-face classes until Monday, January 11.

Cheshire College South & West says its Danebank Avenue campus will only be open for those who are vulnerable, those whose parents are key workers or anyone who has a pre-scheduled exam.

Staff will deliver virtual lessons for students between January 5 and January 8.

The college said in a statement: "Following the latest government guidance we will be closed to all learners week commencing Monday, January 4 2021.

"Face-to-face learning is scheduled to resume week commencing Monday, January 11 2021."

Secondary schools across most of England are remaining closed for an extra two weeks for most pupils (reopening Monday, January 18) although Education Secretary Gavin Williamson told the Commons yesterday that exam-year pupils will return a week earlier on January 11.

The delay in reopening is to allow head teachers to set up mass testing plans for pupils.

Primary schools in the Crewe area, as elsewhere other than in areas with the highest infection rates, will be open next week.

Cheshire East Council Cabinet member for children and families Kathryn Flavell said: "Ensuring the safety of our children and young people is our top priority. These changes have been put in place because the infection rate is particularly high in secondary age children.

"Our education and public health teams are working with schools and colleges to prepare for mass testing of pupils and staff and to provide remote learning where required."

Cheshire College South & West has advised its students that while on campus they should "be kind to each other" and remember to:

• Socially distance
• Follow the one-way system
• Wear a face covering in communal areas
• Wash and sanitise hands regularly