Schools in England and Wales will finally reopen today to all students for a new term after the Covid-19 pandemic forced their closure, leading to cancelled exams and throwing student grades into chaos, Reuters reported.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had promised to get schools back up and running before the summer break, but was forced to shelve those plans, contributing to criticism over how his government has handled education during the crisis.

The Department for Education said that a “system of controls” would be in place to keep pupils and teachers safe, with social distancing maintained whenever possible.

“I do not underestimate how challenging the last few months have been but I do know how important it is for children to be back in school, not only for their education but for their development and wellbeing too,” said education minister Gavin Williamson, who has also come under pressure.