South Tyneside schools to be allowed to choose when they reopen fully for new term after Christmas holiday

South Tyneside schools will be allowed to choose when they reopen after the Christmas break.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Teaching unions have opposed Government plans to reopen primary schools tomorrow, Monday, January 4, amid fears of a new coronavirus spike.

National Education Union joint general secretary Dr Mary Bousted told BBC Breakfast: “It will be helpful with two weeks’ Christmas break where there was mixing over Christmas and unfortunately that has raised levels of infection.”

Read More
Call for all schools to close for first two weeks of term ahead of mass testing
Coun Tracey Dixon Coun Tracey Dixon
Coun Tracey Dixon
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

South Tyneside Council leader Coun Tracey Dixon said schools had been working hard to make a safe return possible: “I want to thank our school communities for everything that they have done and continue to do to ensure that children across South Tyneside can be educated as safely as possible,” she said.

“Headteachers and their governing bodies have been working throughout the festive break to ensure everything is in place for the safe return of pupils but parents, carers and teachers may have growing concerns about returning to school in the current climate. Throughout the pandemic we have supported our schools to deliver education safely and we will continue to do so.

“Ultimately a decision of whether or not to open is one for the school governing body and each school will have its own set of circumstances to consider. However, I can confirm that South Tyneside Council will support schools in whatever decision they make.

“We know that headteachers, staff and their governing bodies will do what is right for their school community, as they have done throughout this crisis. Schools will continue to communicate directly with parents.”

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.