Headlines this morning indicate what perhaps you had already predicted. From the BBC:
The plan for all primary school years in England to go back to school before the end of term is to be dropped by the government.
There had been an aim for all primary pupils to spend four weeks in school before the summer break.
But it is no longer thought to be feasible and instead schools will be given “flexibility” over whether or not to admit more pupils.
Although this is a realistic picture of the current situation for schools, we’re really sad that it’s unlikely all our pupils can return before the summer break.
The Prime Minister announced on 10 May his roadmap to open schools more widely. Reading more closely through government documentation, it was always an ambition rather than a promise, and one that relied very closely on an effective track and trace system in operation (we were assured of a world-beating one by 01 June although it appears this isn’t yet fully operational).
Since 10 May, there have been many conflicting headlines and news stories and opinions. At school level, we’ve had to consider many things to welcome more children back, not least the following:
- increasing numbers of children of key workers across all ages, as more parents were expected back at work
- maintaining provision for children who may be vulnerable in some way
- fewer staff than usual, due to personal circumstances (eg a need to shield)
- limited space to enable social distancing
- evolving government guidance
- how to maintain home learning for those not yet returning
We haven’t yet heard the government announcement about this, but in it, we’d really like to hear some sort of central, long-term plan that’s been worked through alongside school leaders.
In the meantime, we’ll continue to explore how we can safely welcome back more pupils each week whilst not neglecting those who remain at home.
Do contact us if you’ve got specific questions, comments or concerns about your own circumstances. If you’re at home with your child and are really struggling in some way, please do get in touch: call us on 01937 583 379 or send an email to Miss Beatson, the Head of School: stjamesheadofschool@spherefederation.org
We’ll do our best to support in some way.
Is your child attending school, or due to return soon?
If so, it’s really important you read our policy on social distancing and other Covid-19 safeguarding priorities. The content is closely linked to our risk assessment for opening school more widely. We’ve updated the previous policy following further guidance from Leeds City Council; the main changes are:
- reference to safeguarding priorities other than social distancing
- actions we’ll take to follow the policy
It’s important to remember this policy is here to keep everyone safe at school.