Council leader calls on schools to "show flexibility" over 1am World Cup match

Cllr Mike Bell (Lib Dem), the leader of North Somerset Council has been criticised by parents after he called on schools to "show flexibility" over children's attendance on Monday as England play Mexico in the World Cup with a 1am kick off.

In a social media post on Facebook Cllr Mike Bell said:

"After England’s qualification for the last 16 of the World Cup, the next big match against Mexico kicks off at 1am GMT on Monday 6 July.

That is, admittedly, a bit of a late kick-off for younger fans. But this is the World Cup, England are still in it, and moments like this are made to be shared. So I’m asking parents and carers across North Somerset to consider suspending bedtime, just this once, for children and young people who want to stay up and cheer on the Three Lions.

And I’m also asking local schools to show a bit of flexibility on Monday morning, where they can. Whether that means a later start, a lunchtime kick-off to the school day, or simply no yellow cards for late arrivals, let’s give young fans the chance to sleep off the nerves, the noise and hopefully the celebrations.

This is about letting children be part of a special national moment. They should not have to miss out on England’s progress because of the fixture list and an overseas tournament with challenging time zones.

Parents’ choice of course, but with schools’ flexibility, North Somerset can continue backing England all the way."

His suggestion however, has been met with widespread criticism with many parents pointing out the practical implications of such a decision.

Peter Mason responded by saying: "I am surprised the Leader of North Somerset Council is suggesting this. It will be at least 3.00, and possibly 3.30-3,45 before it finishes. He should know that children/young people need a regular bedtime pattern.

Perhaps he should encourage parents to not let the children know the score and schools to show a recording at 9.00 - it is, after all, nearly the end of the school year." and Jane Roberton said: "You get them up in the morning for school then? Or will you be paying the fines for unauthorised absence when the miss a session because they are too tired?"

Gareth Saunders said: "I am hoping this is tongue in cheek. If not then I think it is inappropriate at best. Parents decide what is best for their children. As regards schools starting late - are you suggesting that businesses and services should also start late. Will your bin collectors be starting at midday." and Sarah Goulty said: "So are you expecting the bus drivers, train drivers, teachers, other school staff etc to be able to drift into work when they feel like it if at all on Monday?"

Cllr James Clayton (Labour) responded by saying: "Sorry Mike I’m going to have to disagree with you on this one! I’m a father to a child with SEND needs so she needs her structure of sleep and school. Plus I rely on breakfast club so I can go to work for 8am. If schools don’t start the school day till lunch time how are parents to rely on the school day to get to work? We all love the big sports tournaments to support our nation but unfortunately the world doesn’t stop so we have to find ways to accommodate around it - like getting some sleep in the day then after the football. "

There was some positive comments around the suggestion, but they were few and far apart, Rachel Kaden said: "Schools should definitely show a bit of flexibility for those who choose to celebrate and support their country. Doesn’t mean everyone has to go along with the idea, it’s just about a bit of fun and being a part of your roots!"

Though, Rob Sayer embodied how many of us feel about the outcome of the competion based on our performance so far by saying: "Children deserve to be disappointed by their compatriots regardless of the hour."