Pupils to return to schools "As early as next month"
Planning can begin to bring a limited number of pupils back to school from as early as next month, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said. Speaking at the daily briefing at Downing Street, he said children in reception, year 1 and 6 - as well as years 10 and 12 - can go back to school in smaller class sizes as part of a phased return.
"They stand to lose more by staying away from school," he said.
He praised teachers for "going above and beyond the call of duty" for continuing to teach children of key workers, as well as making sure resources were available at home for children at home.
"You have simply been outstanding and we are so grateful for what you've done," he said. "We have been quite clear all along that we'd only start inviting more children when our five key tests have been met. That position has not changed nor will it."
But he added: "We can now start the planning for very limited return to school for some pupils potentially as early as next month."
Published: by Radio NewsHub