A Dudley councillor has called on local schools to consider opening late on Monday, July 6, following England's 1am World Cup match against Mexico, or allow parents to keep children off for the day. Councillor Steve Edwards, representing Brockmoor and Pensnett, has written to the Cabinet Member for Children & Young People at Dudley Council, urging schools to show flexibility so families can watch the game together.
Councillor's plea for flexibility
Edwards posted his thoughts on Facebook, stating: "I'm calling on our local schools to show flexibility on Monday morning after England's World Cup match against Mexico. I've written to the Cabinet Member for Children & Young People at Dudley Council asking him to contact our local schools and see if they would consider a later start, or simply give parents the choice to keep their children off for the day if they want." He added: "These occasions don't come around very often. They're about more than football, they're about national pride, bringing families together and making memories that our kids will never forget."
Mixed reactions from the public
The post attracted dozens of comments, with opinions sharply divided. One commenter said: "I'm sorry but this is something I just don't agree with!" Another noted: "I hear what you are saying but if parents work and have to be in say for 8 to 9am, who is taking the younger kids to school later? You can't always rely on grandparents/neighbours etc." A third wrote: "Whereas I do think schools could show some flexibility for Monday, I think this is far more important when it comes to children needing to take time off for medical appointments, illness and family holidays. Attendance matters, but it should never override a child’s health and wellbeing." Others supported the idea, with one saying: "Well done mate, the schools should let them have the day off." Several users reported that their schools had already agreed to later start times.
Official response from cabinet member
Councillor Wayne Little, the cabinet member approached by Edwards, responded publicly, warning the proposal would be "like Marmite." He stated: "The responsibility for deciding whether to close or partially close the school rests solely with the headteacher, who consults with the Chair of Governors wherever possible. Although I’m not a big football fan, I do enjoy supporting our national team during the World Cup and encouraging my children to watch when possible. However, I won’t be letting them watch Monday’s game because of the late timing. That said, it’s good to know that a potential final would kick off at a more reasonable 8pm BST." He added: "Finally, it’s worth remembering that while many people love the ‘beautiful game’, there are just as many who don’t. They would likely be unhappy if their work plans or commitments were disrupted by any school closure decision."
Broader context
The match is part of the World Cup knockout stages, with England facing Mexico at 1am UK time on Monday. Some fans plan to watch live, while others will catch highlights. The debate highlights tensions between national events and school attendance policies.
