Wrexham Council has today welcomed plans by the Education Minister Kirsty Williams to allow schools to reopen in September.
Schools that can do so will safely reopen from the first week of September…with all schools reopening from September 14.
Plans and preparations are underway between the council and local schools to review risk assessments, processes and systems to ensure pupils can be welcomed back safely, and inline with guidance from Welsh Government.
Schools which can, will reopen from the first week of term. Some specific groups of learners might need to be prioritised during this week, such as Year 7, 12, 13 and Special Units for Secondary, Special Units for Early Years and Year 6.
Parents will receive more information from their school and the council as it becomes available.
School attendance compulsory from Sep 14
From September 14, school attendance will be compulsory. Parents are asked to contact their school if a pupil is unable to attend to discuss further.
Each school will have local challenges to address, including staffing levels. Work is also underway to confirm school transport arrangements, which will be a big challenge. The council will work closely with all schools to overcome issues.
Welsh Government has also announced £29m to boost support for learners to minimise the impacts of the disruption due to the ongoing crisis.
It says the equivalent of 600 extra teachers and 300 teaching assistants will be recruited across Wales throughout the next school year, targeting extra support at Years 11, 12 and 13, as well as disadvantaged and vulnerable learners of all ages.
We’ll be working with schools to clarify the details.
Welcome news
Councillor Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, says: “Over the last few months, many children will have felt anxious about not being able to learn at school, and not being able to see their friends.
“I welcome the Minister’s plan to allow schools to safely welcome pupils back in September in line with all necessary safety measures and Welsh Government guidance.
“We know hard working staff in schools, learners and their families may well be under additional emotional, financial and psychological pressure during this incredibly challenging period. We will continue to work closely with schools to consider how best to support the ongoing well-being needs of all learners during these challenging times.
“Pupils’ learning has been severely disrupted by the crisis. We welcome the £29m pledge by Welsh Government to recruit extra staff to support the recovery phase, minimise the impacts on pupils, and continue the ongoing work to raise school standards.”
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