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

Team Manager

Durham County Council
Grade 14 - £50,269 - £54,495
Are you an experienced, motivated leader with a passion for improving outcomes for children and young people? We’re looking for someone who can inspir Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Worker, Connecting Families Team

Durham County Council
Grade 9 £35,412 - £39,152 (Pre-Progression) / Grade 11 £44,075 - £48,226 (Post-Progression)
Connecting families are a team within the Children in Care service in Durham. The team support families of children who are subject to a Section 31 Ca Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Human Resources Officer Advice and Support

Durham County Council
£35,412 to £39,152 p.a. (Grade 9)
  Do you want a new challenge?  An opportunity to develop your career in HR or try something new? If so, come and join our team. The post is full tim Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Support Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 6 £28,142 - £31,022
WHAT IS INVOLVED?   Do you want a role where your organisation skills make a real difference in local communities? Join our Newly remodelled Local Net Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

School Crossing Patrol

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £4,800 (approx.) £12.85 per hour
Join our School Crossing Patrol Service! Are you punctual and reliable? Do you have good communication skills and a strong sense of community spirit? Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner