By Gavin Mackintosh-
The British government has said it will consider all the scientific evidence before re-opening schools as we said we would, and will continue to work with schools, teachers and unions over the coming week before making a final decision.
Prime Minister, Boris Johnson will set out the British government’s progress in meeting the five tests, which will be the prerequisites for the phased opening of schools. Primary schools will welcome back children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6, while nurseries and other early years providers will begin welcoming back children of all ages. as from June 1
Mr.Johnson said he acknowledged that some schools may not be able to reopen immediately, and committed the government to continuing to work with the sector to ensure any schools experiencing difficulties are able to open as soon as possible.
”In line with our roadmap setting out how the UK will adjust its response to the virus, our approach to schools remains a cautious, phased one. It is also broadly in line with other European countries”, he said yesterday.
Secondary schools, sixth forms and colleges will also provide face-to-face contact for Year 10, Year 12 and equivalent 16-19 further education students to help them prepare for exams next year. It is expected this will begin from 15 June, with around a quarter of these secondary students in at any point.
The government’s five tests include confidence in the Nhs ability to cope and to provide sufficient critical care and specialist treatment right across the UK. They also include an observance of a sustained and consistent fall in the daily death rates from COVID-19.
In addition, reliable data from SAGE indicating that the rate of infection is decreasing to manageable levels across the board will be important.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has been in consultation with schools, teachers, and unions, to assure them that the British government has not taking its decision lightly.
Plans to reduce the size of classes and keep children in small groups without mixing with others are also included in the broad guidance surrounding the re-opening of schools.
Staggering break and lunch times, as well as drop offs and pickups, increasing the frequency of cleaning, reducing the used of shared items and utilising outdoor space.
Access to testing will also be available to children and staff who display symptoms. This will enable children and staff to get back to school if they test negative, and if they test positive a test and trace approach can be taken.
Children will also be encouraged not to travel on public transport where possible, in line with the advice to the wider population.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
”This has been a difficult time for the entire country. Education and childcare staff have stepped up to the challenge, making sure children and young people have continued to be supported throughout the past ten weeks.
Our priority is the education and welfare of all children and young people across the country. That is why we want to start a phased wider opening of nurseries, school and colleges is informed by the best possible scientific and medical advice.
We will continue to work with the sector to support them to prepare for wider opening and ensure all children and young people can continue to receive the best care, education and training possible”.