Welsh pupils to start new term with online lessons
FACE-TO-FACE TEACHING NOT EXPECTED TO RETURN FULLY UNTIL JAN 18
SCHOOLS in Wales will use staggered returns for pupils in January after the Christmas break. The new term will start on the fourth day of the month, with online learning continuing for most learners. Face-toface learning is expected to return for most by January 11 and a full return before January 18.
The Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) said flexibility for schools when to ask pupils back would accommodate uncertainty over what effects increasing transmission levels across Wales have on school staffing levels. But it said face-to-face learning should be the default position “unless there are clear public health and safety reasons”.
Secondary schools and colleges in Wales moved to online learning last Monday in an effort to reduce transmission of Covid-19.
The Welsh Government previously announced it will roll out rapid lateral flow testing to schools and colleges in the new year.
A WLGA spokesperson said: “The plan to return to schools in January will give some certainty, whilst also allowing for flexibility to take account of local circumstances.
“Teachers, school staff, learners, and parents and carers’ response has been remarkable throughout this challenging year. It has not been easy, and we thank them for their continued patience and perseverance to help keep our communities safe.
“To help curb the rapid spread of the virus, we must all continue to do all we can to protect ourselves, each other and our communities.”
A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We all recognise that these are unprecedented times and that we have to be agile in how we respond to the impact the virus has on our communities.
“By agreeing to a flexible approach during the first two weeks of the new school term in January enables our schools to put in place proportionate arrangements which reflect their specific circumstances and is guided by public health and safety considerations.
“We know from our children and young people that they learn best when in the classroom receiving faceto-face learning so any measures we put in place must look to minimise further disruption to their education.”