Laura Sharman 04 June 2020

Schools using 'professional judgement' on reopening, union finds

Just over a third of schools (35%) opened on the terms expected by the prime minister on 1 June, a union has found.

Research by the National Education Union (NEU) found 44% of schools did not open more widely to the any of the year groups, although they had remained open to look after key worker and vulnerable children.

The union also found clear regional variation in the proportion of schools meeting the government's criteria. Schools in the North East and North West of England were least likely to have opened to all eligible groups, with these regions having amongst the highest levels of Coronavirus.

Kevin Courtney, joint general secretary of the NEU, said: 'It was always reckless of Boris Johnson to set an arbitrary date and expect schools to fall in line.

'Heads and their staff know far more about their individual challenges than Whitehall ever will. As the regional variation according to coronavirus levels show, schools are listening to the science rather than politicians.'

The survey also found that schools face uncertainty around staffing, with 15% of schools asking staff who are clinically vulnerable to work from 1 June.

In a statement to parliament, education minister Gavin Williamson, said: 'We continue to follow the best scientific advice and believe that this cautious, phased return is the most sensible course of action to take.

'As the prime minister has set out, the Government will continue to monitor the rate of transmission carefully and will not hesitate to reintroduce restrictions on a local or regional basis if required.

Devolution and putting place first image

Devolution and putting place first

The real lesson of Andy Burnham's Makerfield success, argues Dr Jonathan Carr-West, is that place – not personality – is the key to Britain's future.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

HR Support Officer - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
£31284.00 - £35721.00 per annum
HR Support Officer - Braintree District CouncilBraintree District CouncilFixed Term, Full Time£31,284 to £35,721 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Estates Administrator

City Of Doncaster Council
£26,644 per annum
We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Estates Administrator. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Corporate Landlord Fire Safety Officer (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
£40,778 - £45,092 plus £3,200
We are seeking an experienced fire safety advisor/risk assessor to join our Facilities Team. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Street Scene Operations Manager (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 10, £48,227 - £52,414
Do you want to work in a job which makes a difference to the local community and the people who live there? Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Day Centre Support Navigator (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
£28,598 - £31,537
The Central Day Space is designed to provide a safe, welcoming environment for individuals experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council
Linkedin Banner