Bubbles ending...but ‘extra precautions’ possibility in schools

LANCASHIRE County Council’s education boss has warned that ‘extra precautions’ may be imposed in the authorities schools in the autumn term despite the ending of the coronavirus ‘bubble’ system.

The arrangement, which ends on August 16, means that if a single child tests positive for coronavirus whole classes and large groups of children have been sent home to isolate for 10 days.

From the same date under-18s will no longer need to self-isolate after being a close contact with a case unless they then test positive as part of the proposed lifting of Covid-19 restrictions from July 19.

Cllr Jayne Rear, the county council’s cabinet member for education, said: “Throughout the pandemic staff have truly gone above and beyond to keep our children safe and to mitigate the disruption to their education.

“Despite their best efforts, the impact of Covid-19 on our education settings has still been significant, and this has been no more apparent than during this new wave of infections.

“The measures announced by Education Secretary Gavin Williamson will go some way towards bringing some stability.

“Of course, the lifting of restrictions on July 19 also brings its own risks, and our schools will have many challenges to overcome when the new year begins in September.

“Schools will need the support of parents more than ever, so please have patience and be kind to staff.

“It is important to understand that, while restrictions are lifting, there may be times when extra precautions may be needed to manage the spread of the virus and to keep our children safe.”

Lancashire County Council runs schools in Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale.