THE GOVERNMENT’S proposals to potentially bring some children back to school amid the coronavirus pandemic are being ‘refined’ by Solihull Council.
The borough said it had conversations with its schools in recent weeks to put ‘the right support in place.’
In a speech to the nation last night (May 10), Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggested primary schools could reopen in June for years 1 and 6.
The ambition was announced as Mr Johnson changed the government’s Covid-19 advice from ‘stay at home’ to ‘stay alert.’
Some workplaces are being encouraged to bring back staff, particularly in construction and manufacturing.
In a statement, Solihull Council said: “Following the government’s announcement yesterday (May 10) regarding the phased re-opening of schools, Solihull Council will be refining its plans for how this will be implemented locally.
“Over recent weeks, the council has been talking with schools and other educational settings across the borough to gather feedback on what needs to be considered to ensure the right support is in place, so that pupils and staff can return to schools safely.
“The government announced that primary schools could re-open to some year groups from 1 June at the earliest, if infection rates and the government’s other tests at the time allow it. The year groups suggested were Reception, Year 1 and Year 6.
“There was also an ambition that secondary school pupils who have exams next year – such as years 10 and 12 – would get some time in school before the summer holidays.
“The council expects to receive detailed guidance from the Department for Education over the coming days to enable it to plan with Solihull’s schools and educational settings for this phased re-opening.
“More details will be shared with parents and pupils over the coming weeks.
“Please visit the Council website, Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest information. Details will also be shared directly on school websites and social media channels, so families are encouraged to check these too.”
