It's back to class for all pupils from March 15
First Minister confirms some will return on a part-time basis
Last updated 2nd Mar 2021
ALL pupils will return to school on a part or full-time basis from March 15 as Nicola Sturgeon accelerates the exit from lockdown.
It had previously been announced that those in S1 to S3 would not go back to class until April.
But the First Minister told Holyrood today all secondary pupils will now get some in-school time before the Easter holidays.
Pupils in S4 to S6 who are studying for national qualifications are being prioritised for face-to-face learning.
Nicola Sturgeon said that while “years 4 to 6 may have priority, we expect that all children in secondary school will receive some in-school education each week''.
“This will allow pupils to get used to being back in school and allow them to start seeing friends again. This is important for wellbeing as well as for education,'' she said.
“Before Easter, we will also continue to ensure that remote learning is of the highest standard possible.''
She also told MSPs the Scottish Government will consider in the next week if other planned easing of restrictions can be accelerated.
She said coronavirus figures in the past week were encouraging and ministers would be considering if the exit from lockdown can be moved forward.
“When I update Parliament next week, I hope to be able to confirm some changes to Scotland's level 4 restrictions,'' she said.
“Between now and then, and in light of the positive data that I will report on today, we will be considering if it might be possible to accelerate the exit from lockdown in any way, consistent, of course, with the care and caution we know is necessary.''
She added: “I have always said if we can go further and faster, then we will not hesitate to do so.
“All of us want to move on as quickly as possible and, as a priority, to see friends and family again. I hope that day is now not too far away.
“But to make sure we don't see any reverse in our progress that would put that in jeopardy, it is important that, for now, we all need to abide by the lockdown rules.
“So please continue to stick to their letter and their spirit.''