Schools start later than UK, Mexico to ‘help parents’

And Alistair Wilson, vice-principal at Whipton Barton Federation Primary School in Exeter, Devon, opens at regular hours but runs an irregular day, with football-focused activities after breakfast showing match highlights in the classroom.

“It will be a great way to celebrate the day, the World Cup fever has definitely hit them,” Wilson said.

Among schools that open late, teachers are still advising students to get some sleep.

Oaks Park High School in Carshalton, south London, which opens at 09:45, has told parents in a letter to parents that it is encouraging students to get some sleep before the game so they are not “too tired”.

Some on social media, including teacher and podcaster Lee Parkinson, called for some “common sense” decency in Monday’s attendance figures.

Others said last week’s heat wave had many schools across the country closed for several days, disrupting learning.

Back in Wolverhampton, Kelly Wall noticed a lot of positive buzz on the school’s doors.

She says she can understand the perspective of any abuser, but adds: “It’s rare that we get to have these special moments with the kids, because our lives are always so busy.”

“Really, let the kids join in, watch the game and have a little family time.”