AFTER weeks of being closed as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, schools are being urged by headteachers to reopen on June 1.
But disagreements have left some parents unsure about how to find out whether their children’s school will be reopening on the date.
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The best method of finding out if your child’s school is reopening is by direct contact with the school and regular checks on the school’s website.
Your local council can also be a good source of information as they will likely know whether a school in their jurisdiction is set to reopen.
Local media such as newspapers and notices can also be of use too.
The government’s website outlines a detailed guidance on the reopening of schools.
According to the Government’s website: “From the week commencing 1 June at the earliest, we will be asking primary schools to welcome back children in nursery, Reception, year 1 and year 6, alongside priority groups.
“We will ask secondary schools, sixth form and further education colleges to offer some face-to-face support for year 10 and year 12 students (and equivalents) who are due to take key exams next year, alongside the full time provision they are offering to priority groups,” it adds.
The government’s plan urges all schools to open its doors to specific year groups from June 1.
Some councils have however rejected this plan and are planning to override the government’s directive over fears for the safety of staff and pupils alike.
The Government’s move has also been slammed by unions who say reopening schools puts teachers at a risk of contracting the disease.
The Government has chosen to send pupils back to school in a phased manner in order to limit the spread of coronavirus.
According to the Government, having small groups in class is one of the main ‘protective measures’ in the reopening of schools.
Official guidance states: “By returning pupils gradually settings can initially reduce the number of children and young people in classrooms compared to usual and put protective measures in place to reduce risks.”
Although returning will be phased, schools have been advised to operate on a full time basis for those who return.
“Schools should not plan on the basis of a rota system for pupils returning from 1 June, either daily or weekly.
“We are asking schools to welcome back eligible pupils full-time, and do not expect schools to implement flexible approaches, such as rota systems,” the statement says.
