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

Key Worker - Young Carers

Essex County Council
Up to £28621.00 per annum
Key Worker - Young CarersPermanent, Full Time£28,621 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Head of Service - Highways and Transportation

North East Lincolnshire Council
£77,899
We are seeking an exceptional leader to take on the role of Head of Service – Highways & Transportation North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Director of Education

Birmingham City Council
£135,398 to £175,519 (3 days per week on site)
Leading Collaboration. Strengthening Trust. Improving Outcomes Birmingham, West Midlands
Recuriter: Birmingham City Council

Executive Director of Prosperity and Place

East Riding of Yorkshire Council
£148,775 - £159,480
We are seeking an exceptional Executive Director of Prosperity and Place East Riding of Yorkshire
Recuriter: East Riding of Yorkshire Council

Social Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 9 £35,412 - £39,152(Pre-Progression) / Grade 11 £40,777 - £45,091(Post-Progression)
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Next Steps Team in Durham, a developing and ambitious service that prepares young people in care for indep Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner