The return of all children back to schools is "critical for this generation” and "critical to our national recovery too", Gavin Williamson has said, as he unveiled plans to reintroduce mandatory attendance next term.

Outlining the Government's plans to have every school reopen fully in September, the Education Secretary confirmed that whole year groups in schools and colleges will be kept separate "as a minimum".

He also committed to keeping exams next summer - although he did not give a date - and said schools must maintain a "broad and balanced curriculum" including arts and sports.

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