Teaching unions urge the Government not to reopen primary schools for anyone other than vulnerable children and children of key workers

Teaching unions have unanimously asked the Government not to reopen primary schools for anyone other than vulnerable children and children of key workers.

In a joint statement today (Monday Jan 4) the GMB, NAHT, NASUWT, NEU, UNISON and Unite said that all schools should move to remote learning for all while Covid-secure working arrangements are reviewed.

And they said that all school staff continuing to work in schools should be given priority access to Covid-19 vaccinations.

As we reported last night, the NEU said it wanted a pause of schools reopening.

Primary schools are due to reopen tomorrow (Tuesday) after a Christmas break - but some are deciding whether to reopen.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “The government’s own advice from SAGE makes it clear that opening schools to all pupils now risks increasing the infection rate. That’s in no-one's interests.

“Instead of creating chaos for parents and exposing workers to risks, the Prime Minister should be talking to trade unions about what steps are needed to make sure all schools are Covid-Secure.”

Commenting on this joint statement, NASUWT General Secretary Dr Patrick Roach said: “The NASUWT is completely committed to ensuring that children can return to school as quickly as possible.

“However, it is now abundantly clear that the pandemic is seriously impacting on the ability of all schools and colleges to continue to operate normally.

“The NASUWT is calling for an immediate nationwide move to remote education for all pupils in primary, secondary and special schools and colleges.”