Over 90 per cent of Hertfordshire primary schools open for more pupils

Hertfordshire primary schools are busy welcoming their nursery, reception, year one and year six pupils after weeks of isolation due to Covid-19.

Many schools have remained open throughout the lockdown period for vulnerable children and those with key worker parents, but plans are now well underway for the phased return of other pupils.

Councillor Terry Douris, Cabinet Member for Education, Libraries and Localism, said: “The vast majority of our primary schools have opened for pupils on Monday, June 1 after weeks of planning and preparation to manage the safe, phased return of pupils.

"The government has been clear that reopening was subject to progress in managing the Covid-19 epidemic remaining acceptable.

"The safety of our children and school staff is paramount and schools have been completing thorough risk assessments to ensure this safety can be maintained through appropriate social distancing, hygiene and personal protection.

“Parents and carers are being asked to play their part by agreeing to enter and leave the school premises as directed, observing social distancing and not gathering at the gates.

"The phased reopening depends on the circumstances of each school, and the extent to which the wellbeing of the school community can be assured.

"Massive thanks to all our headteachers, support staff, parents and pupils for their help and co-operation during this phased period of transition from the Covid-19 lockdown back to school.

"We appreciate it is a huge step to take after weeks of isolation and can assure them of our unstinting support to make this process as safe and stress-free as possible.”

During lockdown, children have been receiving distance learning and schools have seen an amazing ground swell of support from parents and carers, working shoulder to shoulder with teachers to keep learning fun and on track.

Schools have been in touch with parents about the arrangements for their children and the school’s overall plans for phasing children back into the classrooms.

Secondary schools, sixth form, and further education colleges have been asked to begin some face to face support with year 10 and 12 pupils, although it is not expected that these pupils will return on a full-time basis at this stage.

The phased reopening depends on the circumstances of each school, and the extent to which the safety of the school community can be assured.

Hertfordshire County Council continues to work closely with schools and early years providers to help them plan for and manage school safety during the phased return of more pupils.

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