Ministers face nervous few weeks before the results of schools gamble becomes clear

Just after 3pm last Friday marked a milestone that will remain in the memories of millions of parents long after the coronavirus pandemic is over.

Some celebrated the end of an arduous two months of home schooling with an early afternoon gin and tonic.

Others, perhaps fearing the momentous occasion was just too good to be true, have postponed a celebratory glass or two until Monday, when classrooms are finally due to reopen.