Helping pupils recover from lockdown is a long-term project, says NAHT

In recent days there has been a great deal of speculation about government plans to help young people who have lost out on learning during the pandemic.

Sir Kevan Collins, the former head of the Education Endowment Foundation has been appointed to advise the government on the best steps to take.

Nick Brook, deputy general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “Research evidence shows that there are better methods to help pupils than lengthening the school day. The government must filter out loud calls for superficially attractive schemes and listen to the experts.

“During Sir Kevan’s time at the Education Endowment Foundation, it became a valuable source of information about ‘what works’ in education. The EEF’s evidence has shown that when it comes to accelerating pupil progress, there are other steps you can take that have significantly more impact than simply lengthening the school day.

“We look forward to working with Sir Kevan on identifying a long-term strategy, based in evidence, which values extra-curricular activity and personal development alongside academic recovery.”