Education Secretary Michael Gove has warned headteachers there is a "moral duty" to keep schools open during next week's strike.

In a letter to schools, he said it was the Government's view that industrial action over planned pensions changes was not justified, and that the interests of pupils should be put first.

In a separate letter to local authorities Mr Gove said he was "particularly concerned" that school closures would affect working families and single parents.

Around 300,000 teachers are expected to join picket lines next Thursday as part of a wider public sector strike over pensions and cuts to jobs, services and pay.

Teaching unions have backed the walkout in protest at the Government's planned pension changes, which they say will leave them paying in more, working longer and receiving less when they retire.

In his letters to schools and academies, Mr Gove said: "I am aware that there are very strong feelings in the teaching profession about teachers' pensions and I am personally committed to working openly, honestly and constructively to ensure that teachers continue to receive the high quality pensions that they deserve and value.

"The Government's proposals on pensions are currently the subject of continuing discussion with national trade unions, including teaching unions. Against this background, the Government's view is that industrial action, with the attendant risk of disruption to pupils' education and family life, is not justified.

"In the current situation both the public and parents will expect all of us to put the interests of pupils first.

"My view is that we all have a strong moral duty to pupils and parents to keep schools open, and the Government wants to help you achieve that."

His letter to local authorities adds: "I am particularly concerned that school closures would cause great inconvenience to working families and single parents who will have to make ad hoc childcare arrangements and whose own working lives will be disrupted."

Press Association