Kirklees Together

The Government announced on 30 December 2020, that secondary school pupils will return to their education settings later than planned from the Christmas holidays.

This follows a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases across the country.

The Government has therefore announced a number of changes for the new term in order to help prevent further transmission of the virus.

In Kirklees, all primary schools will open as planned on 4 January 2020.

When will secondary school pupils return?

Secondary schools will open from 4 January for vulnerable children and children of critical workers only.

All pupils in exam years (year 11 and year 13) are to return week beginning 11 January, with all secondary school pupils returning full time on 18 January.

Why is there a delayed and phased return?

The Government wants to allow more time for schools to roll out mass testing of pupils following a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases nationally.

What about vulnerable children and children of critical/key workers?

Secondary schools will open from 4 January for vulnerable children and children of critical workers.

Special Schools are also expected to open as planned for vulnerable pupils and children of key workers and will contact you to confirm.

Are primary schools impacted in Kirklees?

No. In Kirklees, all primary schools will open as planned from 4 January 2020.

Will free school meals be available?

We’re working with secondary schools so they can continue to provide free school meals to eligible pupils in the same way they have been doing during the Christmas period, until they return to school.

Remote learning

All pupils and students will continue to have lessons remotely in line with what they would receive in class, from 4 January, if their return to school has been delayed by this announcement.

If your child requires support with a device or connectivity you should speak to your school.

When will colleges return?

The Government’s announcement also stated that colleges will begin providing face-to-face education for exam year groups from 11 January and the return of all students on 18 January. You will be contacted by your college with your return date.

What if I have COVID-19 symptoms?

If you or someone you live with has COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild, you must not attend school.

If you have symptoms, you should get tested. Visit Kirklees Council’s website for more information on symptoms, testing and what you need to do.

More information

Some schools had an Inset day planned for 4 January – if this is the case it will still go ahead as planned and your child’s return date will be as originally planned in line with the above guidance.

Your school or college will be in touch with confirmation of your child’s return date.

You can visit the Government’s website for more information on this announcement.