We are standing shoulder to shoulder with schools over reopening plans
We are working together with local schools to plan for them to reopen safely, but they will only do so when it is right for children and their families, teachers and school staff.
On Friday, we will host an online conference for schools across Kirklees to support them through the changes they need to make before opening safely for more pupils.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Shabir Pandor, said:
“The truth is that no one has yet decided that schools will reopen on 1 June. It’s a government ambition that depends on several factors. We need to know a lot more before we make a judgment that’s right for families, teachers and schools in Kirklees.
“Anyone who cares about the welfare of our children would be planning for their safe return to school. That’s exactly what we’re doing here in Kirklees.
“We are standing shoulder to shoulder with schools and colleges across Kirklees, working with trade unions and supporting families. We will do what’s in the best interests of all our children and families and make sure they have the best possible environment to return to school.
“It could mean some children return to school on 1 June, or it might be later. Either way, we will be guided by the evidence, not the politics.”
On Friday, Cabinet Member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities, Cllr Carole Pattison, will host an online meeting with schools to hear their views and concerns about the public health challenges tied to the government’s guidance on reopening.
Cllr Pattison said:
“We are talking to schools all the time to support them through the transition. We will continue to do that until they reopen, and beyond.
“In many ways, the government’s timetable and guidance has raised more questions than answers. We are helping schools to navigate the confusion.
“We are listening to their concerns and helping them overcome the barriers. The government is asking a lot of schools, but they have been doing a fantastic job. We will continue to support schools, listen to the unions and do the best for our children in these difficult circumstances.
“We will be guided by the evidence and by the individual circumstances of schools. Parents and schools will then be free to make their own choice.”
I think the responses from the councillors are sensible and measured. As a school governor, I feel confident that the vast majority of Heads will only re-open schools to more pupils if they feel they can keep pupils and staff safe. Heads are in a very difficult position and deserve to be fully supported because a lot has been left in their hands. . .
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What are you on about ?
Too true
There are great benefits to children returning to school but not yet. Government and LEA,s say children should or can return on 1st June but NOT must return thereby negating themselves of any responsibility or culpability should the wheels come off.
Don’t send your child then. You have a choice
Totally agree with you. Also in a neighbouring authority, a 5 year old contracted COVID 19 at school. She recovered but a few weeks later was in intensive care with Kawasaki Disease fighting for her life. There is too much about this virus that we still don’t know about
Look at the daily death toll. Also look at all the lies on testing, care homes etc. Not to mention the teacher who caught covid in school recently. A few head teachers will open at the cost of children’s health. Will they be responsible when it all goes wrong. I for one will sue them.
Good news from council. My little one won’t be going to school in June no matter what. 2500 new cases daily, and they want 4-5 years old to return to school. Let MP’s get back to parliament first.
What does that even mean?
Labour politics… Repeat