NASUWT: Meeting with scientific advisors raised more questions than answers over wider opening of schools

The NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union was represented at today’s meeting with the Government’s scientific advisors to discuss the evidence for the Government’s decision to allow schools to reopen from 1 June.

Commenting on the meeting, Dr Patrick Roach, General Secretary of the NASUWT-The Teachers’ Union, said:

“Today’s meeting has raised more questions than answers.

“No information was provided to change the widely held view that the evidence base for opening schools from 1 June is weak.

“No evidence was provided at the meeting and there was no clarity about when it will be provided by SAGE.

“No confirmation was provided that teachers are at low risk of catching the virus following the wider opening of schools.

“No clear information was provided on what modelling has been undertaken in relation to potential transmission rates when schools open more widely.

“Nothing in the meeting provided reassurance for the deeply worried and anxious school workforce.

“We are continuing to press for answers to these questions and also for clear guidance from Government to schools to ensure that they take appropriate and reasonable steps to assess and mitigate the health and safety risks posed by COVID -19.

“The NASUWT remains clear that no school should reopen until it can demonstrate that it is safe to do so.”