Are UK schools closed for the general election? Polling day advice

After months of campaigning and canvassing, the day has finally arrived for Brits to have their say at the polls.

Churches, town halls and even schools have been transformed into polling stations to allow the electorate to go to a place near them to cast their vote in the ballot box from 7am.

The vote is the first in nearly five years and the general election this year is taking place on Thursday July 4 during term time.

Local authorities are able by law to take over any state school if they need it to turn it into a polling station, meaning any state school could be closed for the day to allow people to have their say. Councils do their best to keep schools open and look for alternative venues if they can.

Affected schools will have been in touch in advance with parents and carers if they are having to close.

Children are allowed in the polling booth if you need to look after them that day, just make sure they don’t mark the ballot paper.

What are the rules on voting?

All British citizens, qualifying Commonwealth citizens and Republic of Ireland citizens with a UK address can vote as long as they are 18 or above.

Since May last year, voters have to show a valid form of photo ID at polling stations. There are 22 acceptable forms of ID, including passports, driving licences, older or disabled person’s bus pass and Oyster 60+ cards.

People go into their local polling station, show their ID and give their name and address to officers working inside. They will then be given a voting form and are required to put a single cross in the box of the candidate they wish to vote for.

They then will drop that paper in the ballot box, which will all be emptied and then counted all across the country once polls close at 10pm.

How are schools picked?

Schools, especially primary schools, are typically and easily accessible because they lie in the centre of communities, so they can make ideal locations for polling stations.

The returning officer can request the use of any state-funded schools, including the following:

• Local authority-maintained schools

• Academies

• Community schools

• Foundation schools

• Voluntary aided schools

• Voluntary controlled schools.

All local authorities will notify schools of the decisions in their area. When a returning officer selects a school to provide accommodation for polling purposes, the use of the premises will not only include the voting room(s) but also access to toilets, washroom facilities, drinking water and providing a minimum level of heat, which means that due to safety of pupils and logistics if your school is picked, it is likely it would be closed for the day.

Is my school affected?

You will have been told in advance of any school closure. However, if you are not sure, you can visit your school’s website or go through your emails to double check.