When will schools reopen? Boris Johnson reveals plans for education

In an address to the nation, the Prime Minister said the government would not be completely lifting the lockdown but did reveal the plans to reopen schools.

However, Mr Johnson said this plan is a "conditional" plan and will depend on the science.

Efforts could be made to get primary pupils back into schools, in stages, starting with reception, Year 1 and Year 6, at the earliest by June 1, the Prime Minister said.

For secondary school pupils who have exams next year the aim is to get them "at least some time with their teachers before the holidays", he added.

He promised detailed guidance "shortly" on how to make things work in schools and shops and on transport.

The Prime Minister said: "Eery day, with ever increasing data, we will be monitoring the R and the number of new infections, and the progress we are making, and if we as a nation begin to fulfil the conditions I have set out, then in the next few weeks and months we may be able to go further.

"In step two – at the earliest by June 1 – after half term – we believe we may be in a position to begin the phased reopening of shops and to get primary pupils back into schools, in stages, beginning with reception, Year 1 and Year 6.

"Our ambition is that secondary pupils facing exams next year will get at least some time with their teachers before the holidays.

"And we will shortly be setting out detailed guidance on how to make it work in schools and shops and on transport."