Doncaster MPs' call for clarity on reopening of borough schools

Doncaster’s two Labour MPs have called on the Government to give teachers and families some clarity over when borough schools will be able to reopen.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson said this week he understood why people wanted a timetable but he did not want to lift restrictions while the infection rate was "still very high". He would not guarantee schools would reopen before April's Easter break.

Doncaster’s Labour MPs Rosie Winterton and Ed Miliband, who represent Doncaster Central and Doncaster North, today issued a joint statement.

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They said: “We know what a hard time this is for so many parents, facing demands of work and looking after their children with schools closed. We would like to thank all our schools and teaching staff who are working incredibly hard to support children’s learning despite continual challenges and disruption

Socially distant classroom teaching.Picture Scott MerryleesSocially distant classroom teaching.Picture Scott Merrylees
Socially distant classroom teaching.Picture Scott Merrylees

"While there is of course inevitable uncertainty, parents and families require as much clarity as possible from government as to when we can expect to see children return to school. We believe the government should also commit to reopening schools first when lockdown restrictions are eased.

"Any decisions made must be led by the science and should do everything to ensure we keep pupils, parents and teachers safe."

But speaking in the House of Commons today, Boris Johnson has announced that schools will remain closed after February half-term.

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However he went on to tell MPs that he hoped it would be safe to begin reopening them on Monday, March 8.

The Prime Minister explained it would not be possible to reopen schools ‘immediately after the February half term’.

Fiona Campbell, Doncaster branch and district secretary of the NEU teachers union, earlier this week said that everyone wanted schools to be open fully, but they must be opened when it is safe to do so, and when the conditions are right to keep schools open sustainably.

Conservative Don Valley MP Nick Fletcher MP said: “We need to do everything we can to get children back into school as soon as possible, and I am confident this is the Government’s objective.”

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Schools are currently open for vulnerable children and children of key workers. Moves to start testing staff are beginning.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.