‘Phased re-entering’ being considered for pupils’ first days

Pupils in Perth and Kinross might return to school on a phased basis, if only for the first few days, education bosses have revealed.

However, while local authority bosses are now preparing for a full return in the second week of August after John Swinney’s announcement yesterday, the viability of a “phased re-entering” over the first few days is still being examined.

Education and children’s services boss Sheena Devlin suggested at a full council meeting yesterday youngsters’ first few days back in the classroom will be much like an induction, especially given the changes enforced.

She said: “At the point of the education recovery group being established nationally, the advice from the chief medical officer’s advisory group stated that physical distancing indoors would be necessary.

“Therefore, a blend of inschool and at-home learning should be planned for.

“A key principle which should underpin each plan and the planning process was that we should seek to have as many children and young people return at the earliest possible date, as safely as possible.

“That earliest possible date was set nationally in a ministerial direction as being August 11, which meant a change of a week in Perth and Kinross.”

Ms Devlin explained planners were expecting more information from the Scottish Government, potentially as soon as this week.

It is hoped it will be revealed whether August 11 must be the start date for all learners to return or if a phased re-entering is acceptable.

School bus travel is still being discussed and will be structured around guidance.