THE big topic of debate in Suffolk and Essex today is whether schools should have done more to ensure they could open their doors yesterday in the aftermath of heavy snow.

Around 200 schools in Suffolk were closed yesterday, and half of those in Essex failed to open their gates.

There was a mixed reaction from parents, with some delighted they could enjoy the snow with their off spring while others complained about having to find last-minute childcare solutions.

Readers have been sharing their views, and Adrian Stohr left a comment on our Facebook page saying: “We have to get into work or we don’t get paid so maybe the teachers probably have it a little too easy and possibly get paid even if they are off.”

Calling for schools to be better prepared, Rachel Bergstrom posted: “Schools have got to get used to this sort of weather because it is going to be the norm for a long time. The roads were clear at 7.30am but the buses cancelled followed by an announcement that the school was closed unless you were doing A Levels!!

“I don’t remember having a day off because of weather. It’s so difficult to get child care anyway without the weather getting in the way! They need to MAN UP!”

Antonina Bickerton could see both sides of the argument and added: “Loved my day with my son, but quizzical at why school actually shut when all others weren’t! So an unpaid day for me.”

Looking back on his own school days, Colin Zippie Bassett posted: “Schools never closed when I was younger, had more snow too.

“Health and safety is well over the top now.”

Trish Moorefield agreed, she said: “My dad had to dig us out of the house some mornings so we could slip and slide our way to Westbourne back in the day... Fun memories!! I do think the open late/close early option is better than closing though.”

Sarah Aldous was appreciative of the snow day and said: “Just let the kids have a day off and a bit of fun.”

On Twitter, Stuart Hood was shocked at the reaction to the snow and said: “Just returned from Findland where there is 20 inches of snow in some places. All schools open!”

And in response to our question, ‘Do schools close easily?’ Stephen Moloney added: “Yes they do all credit due to Moorland school for clearing a safe path to get in my hat off to them #welldonethem.”

Tell us your views on the closures of schools, or send us photos of you braving the elements either today or during your school days to suffolk.iwitness24.co.uk