Safe return to school priority for Wiltshire Council
Local authority encourages parents to follow Government guidance during pandemic
Last updated 4th Jan 2021
Primary schools in Wiltshire will reopen today, despite mounting pressure on the government to keep children in England at home.
Yesterday, the Prime Minister insisted classrooms were "very safe" and the risk of developing serious Covid-19 symptoms was "small".
Some schools in London and the South East will remain shut as a result of high rates of Covid-19.
Wiltshire Council has issued this statement:
"Currently we are advising parents to continue to follow Government guidance regarding children returning to primary and secondary school. Each school will have made contact with parents and carers directly to make them aware of their return to the classroom plans. We are working closely with all schools across Wiltshire to ensure a safe return to school for children as this remains our priority. Any parents who are concerned should visit gov.uk for more information or contact their child's school directly to find out about COVID-secure arrangements they have in place."
TWO LOCAL SCHOOLS SHUT
Meanwhile Wellington Primary Academy in Tidworth (Lions) and Wellington Eagles Primary in Ludgershall will remain closed today.
A statement posted on the school's website says:
"It is with regret that we have made the decision to close school on Monday 4th January due to insufficient staff available. Remote learning and provision for key worker children will be available from Tuesday 5th January."
WILL I BE FINED IF I KEEP MY CHILD OFF SCHOOL?
Many parents across the county remain worried about sending their children to school, however they are concerned they could be fined if they keep them off.
Wiltshire Council says it will NOT be issuing fines.
A spokesperson for the local authority has told Greatest Hits Radio "We haven't advocated fines but advised schools to work with parents to offer support."