Laura Doel, director of NAHT Cymru, said: “We all want to see children back in schools as soon as possible. But we must guard against moving too quickly. This is too important to get wrong. A third lockdown would be devastating to children’s education. It is far better to take our time now than to open too rapidly when the scientific consensus isn’t there.
“Given that many schools are only reopening their doors to foundation phase this week, we need to be careful about giving parents and learners false hope. Statements about a full return after Easter are premature and unhelpful at this stage.
“We need to see what impact the return of foundation phase has before looking at bringing anymore children back in. We also need to know exactly what indicators the government is monitoring to make these decisions, and to make sure this information is clearly communicated to schools and Local Authorities so that they can act at a local level if community infection rates begin to rise. Schools need to be supported and given details to act quickly if the situation on the ground warrants it.
“Welsh Government must act cautiously and transparently to give confidence in their plans for return and to minimise further disruption to children’s education.”
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