Hundreds of schools across the United Kingdom have been forced to shut their doors for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, 7th January 2026, as severe winter weather continues to cause widespread disruption. While Scotland and Northern Ireland are experiencing the most significant impact, several schools in England have also announced closures.
Widespread Disruption Across Scotland
Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, stated that the heavy snowfall across northern parts of the country has had a significant impact on services. He confirmed that a major effort is underway to keep transport moving and public services operational where possible.
"At present, there is still some travel disruption but trunk roads are open and rail, ferry and air services are working to get back to normal as quickly as possible," Mr Swinney said. He added that while many schools are closed, remote learning provisions are in place for affected pupils.
The First Minister also issued a warning for the coming days, noting that further snow and ice are forecast, with yellow weather warnings covering large areas. He urged the public to plan ahead and pay close attention to official travel and weather advice.
Full List of School Closures
The following is a comprehensive list of schools confirmed closed for Wednesday, 7th January 2026. The majority of closures are concentrated in Scotland, with additional sites in Northern Ireland and England.
Scotland: Abbotswell School, Aberdeen Grammar School, Links Nursery and Hub, Aberdeen School for the Deaf, Airyhall School, Ashley Road School, Braehead School, Bramble Brae School, Bridge of Don Academy, Brimmond School, Brimmond school and ELC, Brimmond ELC, Broomhill School, Bucksburn Academy, Charleston ELC, Charleston School, Cornhill School, Countesswells School, Culter School, Cults Academy (Secondary), Cults Primary School, Danestone School, Duthie Park Outdoor Nursery, Hazlehead Outdoor Nursery, Dyce Academy, Dyce School, Dyce ELC, Fernielea School, Ferryhill School and ELC closed, Forehill School, Gilcomstoun ELC, Gilcomstoun School, Glashieburn School, Greenbrae ELC, Greenbrae School, Greyhope School, Hanover Street School, Harlaw Academy, Hazlehead Academy (Secondary), Hazlehead Primary School, Heathryburn ELC, Heathryburn School, Holy Family RC School, Kaimhill School, Kingsford School, Kingsford ELC, Kingswells School, Kirkhill School, Kittybrewster ELC, Kittybrewster School, Links Nursery and Hub, Lochside Academy, Loirston School, Manor Park School, Middleton Park School, Mile-End School, Milltimber School, Muirfield School, Northfield Academy, Oldmachar Academy, Orchard Brae School, Quarryhill School, Riverbank School, Scotstown School, Seaton School, Skene Square School, St Joseph's RC School, St Machar Academy, St Peter's RC School, Stoneywood School, Sunnybank School, Tullos School, Westpark School, Woodside School, Hythehill Primary School Nursery, St Gerardine Primary School Nursery, Findochty Primary School Nursery, Cullen Primary School Nursery, Lady Cathcart Nursery, Linkwood Nursery, St Thomas Primary School Nursery, Keith Primary School Nursery, Fochabers Nursery, Rothes Primary School Nursery, Mortlach Primary School Nursery, Tomintoul Primary School Nursery, Aberlour Primary Nursery, Mosstodloch Early Learning and Childcare Centre, Busy Bee's Childcare, St Peter's Primary School Nursery, Millbank Primary School Nursery, The Cabin Nursery.
Northern Ireland: Duneane Primary School, Magherafelt Primary School, Royal School Armagh.
England: Claytons Primary School, Buckinghamshire.
Ongoing Travel and Safety Advice
Authorities are urging parents, guardians, and staff to check with their local school or council website for the very latest updates, as the situation may change throughout the day. The widespread school closures highlight the ongoing challenges posed by the severe winter weather, which is expected to persist with cold temperatures and icy conditions. The public is advised to exercise caution on all journeys and to follow official guidance from local emergency services and transport providers.
