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Opening schools is a national priority, government says
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Schools Minister, Nick Gibb told the commons that schools in England will be reopen ‘as soon as possible’.
Responding to an urgent question brought by Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green, Mr Gibb said the government would ‘prioritise the reopening of schools as we begin the process of lifting lockdown restrictions’.
Ms Green went onto say that the government had ‘failed to give parents, children and staff the credible plan they deserve’.
Adding: “We simply don’t know what the government’s plan is for school reopening – other than what we read in the newspapers,”
“In recent days, we’ve had reports that the prime minister wants pupils back before Easter, the health secretary saying he wants pupils back after Easter, Public Health England saying overnight the primary schools are already safe to reopen – so which is it?
“What is the plan for full reopening? The schools minister mentioned some metrics but was vague about the required performance against them – can he give us some more clarity?”
Mr Gibb said it was the government’s ‘strong desire to reopen all schools, colleges and universities as soon as possible’.
“We are acutely aware of the damage to children’s education and development – particularly to the most disadvantaged pupils by being away from school and of the increased burdens placed on parents.
He added that the ‘government has been clear that education is a national priority’ throughout the pandemic.
“We had worked hard to keep all schools, colleges and universities fully open but scientific advice we received in January meant we had no choice but to close schools and colleges to all but vulnerable children and the children of critical workers.
“And to restrict in-person teaching in university to those studying to be future critical workers.” He said.
He added that there will be an announcement in the next few days as remote learning is no substitute for face-to-face learning.
“We want to give two weeks’ notice so parents can make arrangement for the care of their children and we will be making announcements in the next few days.” He said.
Chairman of the education select committee, Robert Halfon, told Mr Gibb that parents and children were suffering.
“We need to get our schools open again sooner rather than later,” he said.