We’ll have to trust local staff to do what’s best

There is huge debate but limited clarity about how our schools will begin the process of bringing back more pupils. Parents can be forgiven for being greatly concerned about what is right for their children - and opinions will naturally differ. Teachers and school staff will also have their own entirely reasonable concerns about what’s best for the young people in their care and indeed their personal health. Up and down the country we have seen some local authorities take a different view to the government’s about what years and how many pupils should return in June and if next month is the right time. This week the PT team has reported on a variety of views on this, from MPs and heads encouraging the return to education chiefs who are more cautious. We should not forget that this can never be a ‘one size fits all’ solution. The variables are considerable... from school size to pupil needs to the availablity of staff. The challenges are equally huge... What about teachers with health concerns? How well can bubbles and social distancing work? What about children who have members of their household who are particularly vulnerable? Will home schooling support be maintained for parents who feel thay can’t send children back yet and for how long? The fact is that the key to achieving this is flexibility. Schools and teachers must adapt quickly - but local education professionals must also have the freedom to make their own judgement calls as situations and individual issues unfold. June can’t be a deadline only a guideline.