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.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Corporate Director Community Development

North Yorkshire Council
£145,894 to £169,693 plus relocation support
North Yorkshire Council is entering an exciting new phase of transformation, growth and opportunity. Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Functional Family Therapy Practitioner

Cheshire East Council
£43,149 - £49,658
Do you want to be part of an innovative service that delivers evidence-based interventions and helps families thrive? Macclesfield, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Director of Adult Social Care

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG1)
As a key member of the Directorate Leadership Team, you will provide visible and effective leadership Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Director of Adults Service Development

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG 1)
This is a strategic improvement and assurance leadership role focused on driving the Adults Social Care improvement journey Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Social Care and Commissioning Director Roles

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG 1)
This is an exciting time to join Nottingham City Council and help shape the future of Adult Social Care for the city.  Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council
Linkedin Banner