Schools offered ‘flexible’ start to January term as closure concerns dismissed

Some schools and colleges have already switched to remote lessons ahead of Christmas (Photo: Getty Images)

Secondary schools will be offered “flexibility” on when pupils should return after the Christmas break amid concerns over Covid cases.

The government has insisted it is committed to keeping schools open in January and is advising pupils to return to classrooms next term.

Education minister Alex Burghart said schools will have a “small amount” of leeway over when to welcome pupils back, but this approach will allow schools time to put testing measures in place in the new year.

He said: “The government is committed to ensuring schools open in January as normal.

“The classroom is the very best place for children and young people’s development.

“Protecting education continues to be our absolute priority.”

Covid testing at the start of term

Mr Burghart said that testing, vaccinations, ventilation and good hygiene measures will ensure that in-classroom teaching can continue in January.

The government is now recommending that all secondary schools will be tested for Covid-19 at the start of the January term.

The minister explained: “We are offering a small amount of flexibility for the time at which schools can go back in order to make sure that this testing can take place.

“We are offering additional funding to make sure that this testing is available.

“I can reassure the House that schools have and will have all of the testing facilities that they require.”

Despite reassurances, Robert Halfon, Conservative chairman of the Education Select Committee, said it seems “we are moving sadly towards de facto school closures”.

The MP for Harlow suggested that a “network of supply teachers” should be ready to step in should education staff be required to isolate.

Conservative former health minister Steve Brine also highlighted union calls for a staggered return in January and questioned if the government can guarantee schools will definitely reopen.

Mr Burghart replied: “We absolutely want and expect education settings to be open. We want and expect children to be taught in person. And we want and expect school life to go ahead.”

Schools preparing for online learning

Despite assurances from the government, schools across the UK have told the