THE LEADER of Solihull Council has backed continued reopening of schools in the borough, saying plans are in place to open secondary schools next Monday (June 15).
As all 56 primary schools in Solihull welcomed back children in years 1 and 6 yesterday (June 8), leader Coun Ian Courts said all pupils in years 10 and 12 would go back to schools and colleges on Monday.
Coun Courts said: “Last Monday, some of our primary and special schools welcomed back more pupils and the feedback from their first week back has been really positive. As we expected, the remaining schools have followed suit this week, with all primary and special schools now open to all eligible age groups, as well as to vulnerable children and those of key workers.
“Our secondary schools are still planning to open for years 10 and 12 from next Monday 15 June. We will keep the position regarding the R rate for the region under careful review and have issued guidance to all Solihull schools on what they should do in the event of a suspected or confirmed case. Safety remains our very clear priority.”
A spokeswoman for Solihull College said: “The College is considering how it can facilitate a safe working environment primarily in preparation for the new academic year. Opening of the College from June will be gradual and initially for returning students where appropriate and necessary.”
Across the borough, teachers are preparing for more pupils to return to classes. Head of Heart of England Secondary School, in Balsall Common, Ms J Hughes-Williams said: “At Heart of England here will be some face to face time provided in the coming weeks for some of our Yr10 and Yr12 students.
“Health and wellbeing underpin all that we do educationally and it is important to note that we have successfully and safely remained open from the outset and through the holidays to the children of critical workers.”
