School support staff are urging ministers to let education
leaders move all lessons online from next month, says UNISON
today (Wednesday).
The union says a switch to online teaching from
December 10 – two weeks before the end of term – would cut the
risk of families being forced to self-isolate on Christmas
Day.
Schools, in partnership with local authorities,
should also be free to introduce a mix of classroom and
home-based learning immediately.
This would keep pupils and staff safe -
especially in towns and cities with high infection rates like
Hull - by limiting the number of children in school
at any one time, says UNISON.
UNISON head of education Jon
Richards said: "Schools in Covid-hit areas
are struggling to stay open. High numbers of children and staff
are sick or self-isolating – and it’s only going to get
worse.
"Schools and local authorities know what is
best for pupils, staff and the wider community. Government
officials must step back and let education leaders make their own
decisions.
"Measures such as increased social distancing
and virtual learning are vital in the run up to the festive
season. It’s the only way to stop infections spiralling out of
control and to save Christmas.
"Parents must be supported by employers so
children can learn from home properly. The government must ensure
fundin is available for laptops and other home-learning kit so
disadvantaged children don't lose out."
