The media has provided a platform for an unrelenting litany of complaints from members of the public expressing a range of opinions about school closures in the face of adverse weather.

Concerns about pupil and staff safety and the decision by some transport companies not to take risks got only an occasional mention, as did the fact that many teachers spent hours on the phone, contacting parents and colleagues, as well as preparing themselves for the backlog of work that results.

Now, let me relate a story which may provide evidence there is at least one school where the staff, parents, governors and students take education seriously.

Alec Hunter Hunanities College, in Braintree, was the scene of frenzied activity at the weekend by a willing band of volunteers, who made their way to the campus to clear paths, car parks and other areas to make the schol safe for pupils to resume their studies on Monday.

Congratulations to them, and let us hope the critics take note.

Professor Chris Green
Chair of governors
Alec Hunter Humanities
College