Though vulnerable children and the children of essential workers continued going to school during lockdown, many other students have stayed at home during this time. As COVID-19 cases slowly decline, around two million pupils have been able to return to primary schools in England.
The results are mixed. Based on a National Foundation of Educational Research survey, around 50% of students will head back to school. Some parents feel it necessary for their child’s mental health to bring them back into the community. Others claim that there is no guarantee of social distancing appropriately applied everywhere.
However, safety measures are enforced in all institutions. More handwashing, rearranged desks and open windows are required in every classroom. Overall, there are many scenarios that schools can choose from. They can either reject bringing pupils back into education or open up in different variations (e.g. smaller classrooms, fewer days, safety equipment, etc.)
Some ministers, such as Tulip Siddiq, Labour's shadow minister for children and early years, argue that the concern about safety in schools may endanger the existence of many nurseries and childcare institutions. With a low interest in sending children back to school, many may close due to financial difficulties.