The government has laid out guidance, information and assurances about early years providers, schools and colleges for parents.
While nurseries and childminders have remained open and allowed children to attend their usual hours during the third national lockdown in England, schools are due to reopen for all students from 8th March.
The government has advised that all primary school pupils should return to face-to-face education from this date, while all secondary school pupils and college students will be offered testing from 8th March and can then begin to attend school following a negative test result.
Testing is voluntary and no child will be tested without informed consent. A child who refuses to take a test will not be prevented from returning to school, and will be able to do so in line with their school’s phased return arrangements.
The measures follow assurances from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health that the “overwhelming majority” of children and young people still experience no symptoms, or only a very mild illness.
This fact has been weighed with the importance of attending school for the wellbeing and development of children and young people.
Meanwhile, any child who is confirmed as clinically extremely vulnerable is currently advised to shield and not attend education or childcare.
Any children who test positive for Covid-19 or who come into contact with anyone who has tested positive may be advised to self-isolate in line with public health advice. If this is the case, they will not be able to attend school.
The government says: “We know some parents will be feeling anxious about their children returning to school or college. If you have concerns about your child attending, you should discuss these with your school or college. They should be able to explain ways they are changing things to reduce risks.”
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They work with a large number of early years and childcare providers, as well as schools, colleges, and children’s services. Their courses include Safeguarding Children, Understanding Mental Health and Anxiety Awareness.
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For more information on the training that FRT can provide, please call them today on freephone 0800 310 2300 or send an e-mail to info@firstresponsetraining.com.