It may be summertime, but the new school year is not that far away. I was pleased to see last Sunday, that Prime Minister Boris Johnson highlighted how much of a national priority it is to get all pupils back into school in September.
Sadly, there was no option back in March but to close schools as part of our nation’s efforts to protect the NHS and save lives. Parents and families have worked hard to support children learning at home, supported by many dedicated teachers who have provided remote learning for pupils. While this has been helpful, we know that the best way to educate our children is through them being at school.
Everything being done to open things up is a tricky balancing act. I do take the view that if the scientific evidence says there is a choice between schools and pubs being open, then schools must come first. Too much time spent out of the classroom risks a lasting effect on future life chances, and we know children’s mental and physical health is impacted the longer they are out of school.
Detailed plans have been drawn up for getting all our children back to school in a way that’s safe for them and teachers. This includes grouping children into bubbles, staggering drop-off times, regular handwashing and providing schools and colleges with a number of home testing kits. We need to remember that it isn’t going to be easy for teachers and heads. The cooperation and understanding of parents will be especially helpful in order to get our schools operating successfully for all pupils. Please do have patience, particularly in the first couple of weeks.
The Government are investing £1 billion in catch-up support, including a new £350 million National Tutoring Programme. They have also announced £14 billion extra for schools and a new 10-year school building programme, as part of the Government’s mission to build back better. All of this is welcome as we can’t have children’s education suffering any longer. Getting schools fully open will also assist working parents and help get our economy moving.
Councillor Duncan Crow, Leader of Crawley Borough Council Conservative Group
12th August 2020
