‘Irreparable damage if schools don’t open’

The chief executives of two multi-academy trusts which run primary schools in and around Peterborough have warned of “irreparable damage” if schools do not re-open as soon as possible.

The warning was issued by Nick Hudson, chief executive of the Ormiston Academies Trust, and Adrian Ball, chief executive of the Ely Multi-Academy Trust, in a letter to The Times sent by 23 academy trust chiefs.

The letter stated: “For any child, prolonged absence from school is concerning. For disadvantaged pupils, it is calamitous.

“If we do not take action and reopen schools soon, the impact of lost learning could be irreparable.

“We are also conscious of the economic imperative that schools reopen so people can get back to work. The Government’s decision to proceed with the next phase of school reopening, provided key tests are met, will have been difficult, but reopening is essential.”

They added: “Some of the debate over reopening has been unhelpful and doesn’t reflect our sector. We ask for improved dialogue and for all parties to work together from now. We need to abide by scientific advice, collaborate and welcome children back to school.”

Ormiston Academies Trust runs Ormiston Meadows Academy, while the Ely Multi-Academy Trust runs St. Botolph’s C of E (C) Primary School, Stanground St John’s Church of England Primary School, Stilton Church of England Primary Academy, William de Yaxley Church of England Academy, Holme Church of England Primary Academy and Farcet C of E Primary School.