Commenting on the announcement that parents can book Covid vaccinations online for 12-15-year-olds from this weekend, James Bowen, director of policy for school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

"This is a sensible move. Those who want to get the vaccination should be able to do so as quickly as possible.

“We know that the high level of cases amongst this age group has led to some pupils who want to vaccine not being able to get it in school, either because they are absent on the day or because they have tested positive for Covid-19 within the last 28 days.

“It remains crucial that the in-school programme is rolled out as quickly as possible. We know that the health teams working in schools are working tirelessly to achieve this, but they need full support from the government.”