THE majority of primary schools in Bury remained closed to all but children of key workers today ­— the day the Government wanted schools to reopen to specific year groups.

But it is expected most of Bury's primary schools will welcome back Year Six pupils next Monday .

The Prime Minister announced that primary schools in England would reopen their doors to more pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 from today.

But Bury Council said last month that schools would not be opening on that date.

Today, the council said schools will be looking at a more phased return for their pupils, with the majority of them welcoming back Year Six pupils on Monday, with reception and Year One pupils going back by the middle of this month.

The decision when to 'reopen' school lies with the headteacher and the governing body.

The council said it was working with headteachers to prepare for a wider reopening.

Town hall chiefs stressed that schools will reopen to more children "as soon as it is safe to do so".

Schools will inform parents when their child's school will be accepting more pupils.

Bury Council is hoping to have a clearer picture on when schools in the borough will be opening to more pupils, and how many parents will be sending their children back this week.

Bury Grammar School reopened today kindergarten and Year Six pupils

Mrs Anderson, Principal said: "We take our commitment to ensuring the safety of all pupils and staff very seriously and the this is our number one priority."

Schools which have opened in neighbouring Bolton have put in place social distancing measures, and a limit on numbers per classroom, meaning there could be a waiting list in place for parents wanting to send their children back.

Schools, colleges and nurseries closed more than nine weeks ago due to the Covid-19 outbreak, remaining open only for vulnerable youngsters and the children of key workers.

The decision to go ahead with a phased return to school from June 1 came after education unions and council leaders urged the Government to reconsider the proposals amid safety concerns.

Early indications suggest the number of pupils back in the classroom varies significantly depending on local area.

It is not yet clear how many parents opted to send their children back to school nationally, but a recent survey suggests heads were expecting around half of families to keep pupils at home.