Birmingham Schools Closed Amid Heavy Snowfall on 6 January 2026
Birmingham, 6 January 2026 – Several schools and colleges across Birmingham and the West Midlands remain closed today due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, as the Met Office issues an amber warning for up to 40cm of snow. The adverse weather conditions have led to widespread disruption, with authorities advising parents to check directly with institutions for updates.
Weather Conditions Causing Disruptions
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The UK is experiencing an arctic airmass, bringing cold conditions, snow, sleet, and hail showers. In Birmingham, overnight snowfall has made travel difficult, with temperatures dropping to -3C. The Met Office has extended yellow warnings for snow and ice, predicting further chaos. Birmingham City Council recommends checking school websites or contacting them directly for the latest information on closures.
Affected Schools and Colleges
Numerous educational institutions have announced closures for safety reasons. Sandwell College has closed a campus today and tomorrow (6 January and 7 January) due to heating issues. Halesowen College is also closed to all students, with lessons moving online. Other schools, such as Ormiston Forge Academy in Cradley, have shut despite efforts to open safely. Birmingham City Schools advises parents to monitor announcements, as some closures may extend into Wednesday.
Key Facts / Stats
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Met Office Warning | Amber warning for heavy snow up to 40cm in Birmingham and West Midlands. |
| Temperatures | Expected to drop to -3C, with freezing conditions persisting. |
| Closures in Region | Hundreds of schools across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland affected; specific to Birmingham include Sandwell and Halesowen Colleges. |
| UK Health Alert | Amber cold health alert in place until Friday, affecting health and wellbeing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which schools in Birmingham are closed today?
Specific closures include Sandwell College (central campus), Halesowen College, and Ormiston Forge Academy. Birmingham City Council provides a list of schools and nurseries; check their website or contact the school directly for updates.
When will the schools reopen?
Most closures are for today (6 January 2026), with some extending to tomorrow. Authorities will provide further updates based on weather improvements.
What should parents do if their child’s school is closed?
Schools are offering remote learning where possible. Parents should monitor official announcements and ensure children stay safe indoors during the snow warnings.