Welsh schools 'not exiting lockdown on June 1'

Kirsty Williams said that despite speculation regarding changes to schools in England being announced this weekend, the situation in Wales will be dictated by the Welsh Government.

“As I have said before, you will always hear directly from me on the decisions we make in Wales for our pupils, parents and school staff," she said.

“The situation for schools in Wales will not change on June 1. You have my guarantee that we will give everyone time to plan ahead of a next phase starting.

“Any decision to increase the operation of schools will be communicated well in advance. We are working closely with local authorities to ensure that schools are supported in this preparation work.

“In the meantime, critical workers and those who need to use schools or hubs for your children should continue do so."

The Minister added: “We will continue to be guided by the very latest scientific advice and will only look to have more pupils and staff in schools when it is safe to do so. We will, of course, need to ensure that social distancing requirements can be adhered to.”

Ms Williams has also written to all of the main teaching unions in the UK and Ireland, in response to their concerns that schools will be open to most pupils before it is safe to do so.

A document will be published next week setting out more of the thinking, planning and modelling for the next steps for education in Wales, including childcare and further education.

The Minister set out her five key principles on April 27 explaining when a return may be possible, which are dictated by the safety and mental, emotional and physical wellbeing of students and staff, the continuing contribution to the national effort and strategy to fight the spread of COVID-19, having the confidence of parents, staff and students, an ability to prioritise learners at key points, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, and consistency with the Welsh Government’s framework for decision making.