WHILE the national debates rages today (Wednesday) over whether schools should close when it snows - Stourbridge’s Elmfield School says it has been business as usual despite the heavy snow and icy conditions this week.

While the majority of schools across the borough ordered pupils to stay home yesterday (Tuesday) - staff at the Rudolph Steiner school in Love Lane kept their doors firmly open.

School spokeswoman Caroline Smith said: “At Elmfield the policy is always to endeavour to stay open. During the snow the teachers and children still enjoyed early morning sledging together in the park, but the rest of the day was back to the classrooms and work as usual.

“We really don’t see why schools have to shut – some children or staff may not be able to make it, but nearly all of our children were here when other schools were closed. We enjoy the achievement of getting into school.”

Stourbridge schools were back up and running today (Wednesday), although Cradley C of E Primary and Manor Way Primary in Halesowen remained closed.

High Arcal was also due to stay shut today to youngsters in years seven, eight and nine, but open to children in years ten and 11.