Birmingham: Cllr Jayne Francis, cabinet member for education, skills and culture, talks about how schools are safely welcoming back all Birmingham pupils.
In September schools and early years settings will be welcoming back all pupils and I know head teachers, managers and staff are really looking forward to seeing children back.
It is really important they return, not just for their academic and child development progress but for social wellbeing too – children will learn and see their friends again.
So it is vital that parents and carers are confident that schools and settings are ready and safe for children to return. Head teachers, managers and staff are continuing to work hard through the summer holidays to prepare for full re-opening.
They are doing risk assessments and have been working closely with public health colleagues; schools and settings are well-prepared to deal with any cases and fully understand public health procedures.
So, what should parents, carers and children expect? Things will vary from school to schools, but here are some examples:
- Classes may be organised in ‘bubbles’ as it is difficult for everyone to socially distance, particularly very young pupils.
- Drop-off and pick-up arrangements will be organised to ensure there aren’t too many people at school during busy times.
- There will be no large assemblies
- Play times and lunch times will be organised to ensure there is no over-crowding and children can enjoy playing with their friends in a safe environment.
Early years settings will look different too, with the examples above applying too – but there will also be changes to spaces with less soft furnishings and sharing of toys and equipment.
Yes, things will be a little different, but schools and settings are trying to make any changes as easy as possible, and it is all done to keep children and staff safe.
If parents or carers have any concerns they should contact their school or early years setting. Members of staff are really looking forward to welcoming back the children and young people and working with them to catch up with any learning they may have missed out on since March.
Stay safe and enjoy going back to school!
