Welsh schools set for a phased return towards end of the

A DATE for re-opening schools in Wales is expected to be announced today – with some pupils set to return by the end of this month.

Education minister Kirsty Williams will outline detailed plans for bringing pupils back into the classroom at the regular daily Welsh Government briefing.

It is understood the Welsh Government has been looking at re-opening schools on a phased return on either June 22 or 29.

Exact details will be released at lunchtime, but it is expected the minister will say there is scientific evidence to support some pupils returning this term.

Schools were ordered to shut on March 20 just before the nation went into lockdown.

Wales’ largest teaching union, the NEU Cymru, said a survey of members over half term last week showed an “overwhelming majority” don’t want schools to re-open until September. They are likely to be disappointed.

Teaching unions have expressed concern about returning younger children, pointing out that social distancing is impossible for this age group and restrictions may make it counterproductive to their learning and experience of school.

The Welsh Government would not comment before today’s announcement, but writing on the

NEU Cymru Facebook page union secretary David Evans said the dates of June 22 or June 29 have been suggested for schools re-opening.

Ms Williams has previously said not all pupils will return to school at once when they do.

She said they would open in a phased return based on five principles:

The safety, and mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing of students and staff;

Continuing contribution to the national effort and strategy to fight spread of Covid-19;

Having the confidence of parents, staff and students – based on evidence and information – so that they can plan ahead;

Ability to prioritise learners at key points, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds; and

Consistency with the Welsh Government’s framework for decisionmaking, to have guidance in place to support measures such as distancing, managing attendance and wider protective actions.