Hampshire Council leader to contact Education Secretary over concerns about schools reopening
Keith Mans says parents are worried about whether to send their children back
Last updated 4th Jan 2021
Hampshire County Council leader is contacting the Education Secretary over worries in the local community about primary schools reopening today.
Keith Mans says he is getting in touch with Gavin Williamson to stress the concerns of teachers and parents, in relation to Covid-19 measures, ahead of the return to class after the Christmas break.
He said he is aware some mums and dads are anxious about sending their children back.
He said he understands their concerns, with Hampshire in Tier 4 and infection rates rising.
He added: "The competing and growing concerns about whether to open or close schools are clearly evident, and the need to strike a balance between the physical and mental well-being of pupils when they do not attend school and the continued spread of the virus.
"We understand the Government's exceptionally difficult decisions in this regard - which are based on wider ranges of information than these increasing rates.
"Hampshire's early years providers and countywide family of schools are continuing to work hard to keep Hampshire's pupils, teachers and school staff safe, by implementing appropriate measures to help prevent the spread of infections when they are in school.
"We are extremely grateful for all the work that is being undertaken, and I am aware that many staff will have worked over the Christmas period to ensure that measures remain in place and adhere to the latest national guidance."