The head of England’s most successful academy trust has called on the government to set a date for the reopening of schools, as parents across England anticipate national offer day for primary schools.
Hamid Patel, chief executive of Star Academies, said setting a date would provide a sense of purpose and put a stop to the distraction of endless speculation.
“Confirmation of a date will of course be subject to medical advice – but having a date in mind is essential,” said Patel. “This could either be in mid-May or immediately after May half-term.
“Setting a date will provide a clear sense of purpose and avoid the confusion and distraction of endless speculation. People will be more likely to maintain compliance with social distancing measures if there is an end point in sight.”
Some school leaders in the UK have suggested a return in July for a few weeks before the school holidays are due to start.
A number of ministers in the UK are reported to be pushing for a much earlier date, suggesting that younger pupils should be allowed to return to school as early as 11 May to enable other lockdown restrictions to be relaxed.
The Labour leader, Keir Starmer, calling for the government to set out its plans for lifting the lockdown, said he thought reopening schools and mass testing should be among the first priorities.
The government has said it will only reopen schools when the scientific evidence says it is safe to do so.
Ministers will, however, be watching other countries closely as they grapple with the same dilemma.
In Denmark, where there have been far fewer deaths and lower rates of infection, children up to the age of 11 are returning to nurseries and schools this week.
Source: The Guardian
