Parents 'will not face fines' for keeping their children off school when they return, say County Durham chiefs

Government plans have targeted a partial return to classrooms for pupils in nursery, reception, year one and year 6 from June 1 ‘at the earliest’.

But Durham County Council has also said it will back headteachers concerned about COVID-19, pushing only for a ‘phased reopening when they feel it is safe to do so’.

“Guidance to schools around a phased reopening and decisions on the timing of it and the number of pupils returning will be based on an individual, rigorous risk assessment for each school,” said Coun Olwyn Gunn, cabinet member for children and young people’s services.

“In line with national guidance, parents and carers can be assured that they will not be penalised if they make the decision not to send their children back to school whilst we are in the process of the Government’s proposed phased return.

“Parents and carers can make the choice they feel is right for their children and should not be pressured into a decision they are uncomfortable with.”

Throughout the coronavirus lockdown, County Durham’s schools have remained open for the children of key workers, as well as those with Education Health and Care Plans or considered ‘vulnerable’.

Government proposals to begin restarting lessons from June have met a mixed response from headteachers, unions and political leaders, with some in favour and others fearing COVID-19 infection rates mean it is not yet safe.

But while County Durham had promised to consider the circumstances of every school, other local authorities have opted for blanket measures.

Hartlepool Borough Council became one of the first English council to state its schools will not reopen on June 1, blaming a continuing rise in infections.

Coun Gunn added: “There is no simple answer to the phased reopening and I’m acutely aware that there is a nervousness about returning too early.

“This is completely understandable and whilst it will be great for all children to return to school, parents, carers and staff need reassurance regarding safety.”

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