A significant number of schools across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region will remain closed on Friday, January 9, 2026, as a result of an incoming "snow bomb" linked to Storm Goretti.
Met Office Issues Amber Warning for Heavy Snow
The Met Office has escalated weather alerts for the area, issuing an amber weather warning for heavy snow. This alert is active from 8pm on Thursday, January 8, through Friday morning. Forecasters warn that the snow, associated with Storm Goretti, is likely to cause significant disruption and create dangerous travelling conditions overnight and into the following day.
Confirmed School Closures and Delays
In response to the severe weather forecast, numerous educational institutions have proactively announced closures for pupil safety. Among the first to confirm were Aston University Engineering Academy & Sixth Form in Birmingham and Bilston Church of England Primary School in Wolverhampton.
The headteacher of Bilston Church of England Primary informed parents that the decision was made in the "interests of the safety of everyone." Pupils will be provided with work to complete at home.
Queen Alexandra College in Harborne also confirmed its closure after careful consideration, though it will remain open for residential students.
Meanwhile, the Invictus Education Trust, which oversees several schools including Crestwood School and Wombourne High School, has opted for a "pragmatic approach." These schools will delay opening until 10.30am to allow travel outside of the rush hour. The trust stated it would monitor conditions closely, with any final closure decisions communicated by headteachers by 7am.
Full List of Confirmed School Closures
The following schools have confirmed they will be closed on Friday, January 9, due to the adverse weather conditions:
- Aston University Engineering Academy & Sixth Form, Birmingham
- Wilkinson Primary School, Bilston
- Link Academy, Dudley
- Bilston Church of England Primary School, Bilston
- Beacon Hill Academy, Sedgley
- Northwood Park Primary School, Wolverhampton
- Westcroft School, Wolverhampton
- Blowers Green Primary School, Dudley
- Kates Hill Primary School, Dudley
- Pegasus Academy, Dudley
- St James Academy, Dudley
Parents and guardians are advised to check with their individual schools for the very latest updates, as this list is expected to grow throughout Friday morning.
