Here’s what the NAHT want, which all sounds eminently reasonable.
We will be continuing to argue throughout the weekend that government needs to change its approach if we have any chance of success at keeping schools open to all pupils and not just for the most vulnerable and those of key workers.
The government’s current approach is too simplistic and is damaging education. It is time to properly respond to what professional educators need rather than how attractive a headline may read.
The government is alienating the profession, failing children and being reckless with the safety of the whole school community.
We believe that the government should take the following steps:
Move all schools to home learning for a brief and determined period for most children.
During this time, proper support to make the home learning experience as good as it can be should be provided. That includes technology and learning resources but also flexibility for school leaders to respond to their circumstances. A centralised, prescriptive approach is too constrained.
The government should then establish a properly organised, resourced and funded mass testing regime for schools in place of the botched DIY system currently being imposed.
Work should be undertaken with school leaders and PHE to establish and agree new covid-related safety measures in schools during the temporary restriction.
Urgently review its approach to special schools, APs and Maintained Nursery Schools to protect all staff and pupils in those communities.
Immediately prioritise vaccinations in education.
Then agree an orderly return.