Minimise school closures during elections by using alternative polling venues.

Background

Councils should only close schools for polling where no reasonable alternative exists. Many schools already remain open using separate entrances or isolated polling areas, proving closures are not always necessary.

Additional details

Schools are still routinely closed for polling days despite many councils successfully using alternative venues or keeping schools partially open through separate entrances and isolated polling areas. Elections are planned events, yet families face avoidable learning disruption and childcare challenges. Schools should only close where no practical alternative venue or operational arrangement exists.