Wider opening of Hull schools from June ‘subject to risk assessments’

The city’s Learning Partnership is planning for a wider opening of schools to specific year groups from 1 June.

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday, schools and early years settings are now considering the guidance to offer places to more children.

Schools continue to be open for children whose parents are key workers, and also vulnerable pupils.

Only if the measures set out by the Prime Minister are met will there be a staged return for pupils, beginning with nursery, reception, year one and year six.

Jo Moxon, Hull City Council’s assistant director for learning and skills, said: “The logistical planning process is extensive and each school will make their own decisions based on risk assessments for their school. School opening has to be based on the safety of children, staff and parents and this will be different from school to school.

“Guidance states class sizes should be a maximum of 15 pupils and in some schools this number will need to be lower due to building layouts and staff availability. Therefore, at this stage we want to make clear to parents that a 1 June opening is subject to the Prime Minister’s conditions being met, and also dependant on each school’s risk assessments and logistical planning.

“Parents should not expect a blanket return of all pupils in nursery, reception, years one and six across all schools in the city at the same time, as this may not be possible.”

The Learning Partnership continues to plan for a wider opening of schools in a way that ensures schools are the safest places they can be, for pupils, staff and parents.

Schools continue to provide information and learning resources via their websites and parents are encouraged to log in regularly.

Jo said: “I am very grateful to all school staff who have continued to work, some as volunteers on Bank Holidays, to provide support for vulnerable children and those of key workers throughout the coronavirus period.”

A wine glass. Photo by Shoeib Abolhassan