Newham Council is inviting the parents and guardians of children in schools across the borough to share any thoughts or concerns they may have about sending their young ones back to the classroom as Covid-19 lockdown restrictions are being eased by the Government.
A Parents Survey has been launched so that parents and carers can tell the Council what they think and how they feel about schools opening to more pupils.
Many Newham schools have been open during the Covid-19 lockdown period to care for vulnerable children, those with special educational needs, and for those pupils whose parents or guardians are key workers. From 1 June, primary schools have been asked by the Government to extend opening to Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6, classes, and from 15 June secondary schools are being asked to provide face-to-face provision for Year 10 and Year 12 students.
The survey will ask parents and guardians if their child or children are currently attending school, any reasons for them not returning, or what support they might need to make it more likely that they will let their young ones return. They will also be invited to offer opinions on the long-term impact of the coronavirus pandemic on their lives.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz said: “The Government have said primary schools are now able to welcome back more pupils in nurseries, reception and years 1 and 6. Over recent weeks, I have made it clear that schools in Newham shouldn’t open as it could lead to increased transmission and a second wave of coronavirus in the borough. That’s why I’m pleased that all our maintained schools took a cautious approach and didn’t rush back immediately.
“Our schools will welcome pupils when their governing bodies and head teachers have weighed up the risks based on sound clinical expertise and have the right social distancing measures in place to keep pupils, staff, families and our wider community safe.
“If you are a parent or carer, you shouldn’t feel under any pressure to send your child back to school as Newham Council won’t take any action in this current period. The safety of your child, household, school staff and the wider community is too important.
“The temporary closure of schools for most pupils since March because of Covid-19 is unprecedented and it has been a strange and challenging time for many families. That’s why we want to understand fully the issues parents have and what information the Council can offer to help them make informed decisions about what’s right for their child and family. Please tell us your views and how you feel about the situation. The survey will take less than five minutes to complete.”
Please follow the link to the survey here. Please return your comments by close of play on 11 June.