‘Half of families’ will keep their children from going to school

TENS of thousands of pupils and teachers are expected to stay away from schools when they reopen in England this week, a report suggests.

Primary schools have been told to be there for those in reception, year one and year six, with nurseries also set to resume.

But a study by the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) showed half of families are expected to keep children at home.

It also revealed almost one third of available teachers will be able to work only from home.

It found school leaders with the highest proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals estimate 50 per cent of families will keep children at home.

This compares with an estimate of 42 per cent with the lowest proportion of free-meal pupils.

NFER said it raises fears that pupils in most need of education “will be least likely to receive it”.

Meanwhile, a poll of parents by the Early Years Alliance found only 45 per cent of parents whose childcare providers are opening from today plan to take up their place.

Schools, colleges and nurseries across the UK closed 10 weeks ago because of the pandemic, with classes offered only to vulnerable youngsters and those of key workers.

The NFER report suggests the impact of the virus on disadvantaged pupils dates back to the period before lockdown, with a “significant drop” in their attendance before schools closed.

Last week Boris Johnson announced the five key tests required for the easing of the lockdown had been met, meaning schools could admit more pupils this week – with no more than 15 per class.

Ministers have come under pressure from unions and council leaders to reconsider plans amid safety concerns.

Carole Willis, chief executive of NFER, said: “Government guidance needs to be tailored to allow flexibility for school leaders to use their professional judgment.”