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The Irish National Teachers’ Organization has said it will be necessary to reduce the number of children attending at one time in almost all schools, given the current guidance around physical distancing.
In its submission to the Department to Education on reopening schools, it warns that this will pose what it said are “huge operational challenges” for schools and clear communication with parents will be necessary.
The organization has outlined its contingency planning arrangements and key issues of concern for primary and special schools for this school year.
It said there is a clear acknowledgment that it is not possible to observe physical distancing in a primary or special school setting, as it is in shops or other workplaces, particularly among younger children and some children with special educational needs.
It said this is a matter that is of huge concern to its members.
The INTO is seeking assurances that schools are not re-opened prematurely and then might face a second period of enforced closure.
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It said that while its membership is up for the challenge of re-starting the formal school system, it expects that its views and concerns will be addressed.
The INTO said priority must be given to the safety and physical and mental health of staff, pupils and parents in primary schools.
It also said that appropriate measures should be in place to assist children with physical distancing, including providing for smaller class groups, floor markings, arrangements for assembly and arrangements for playing.
In terms of preventing Covid-19, it said that where a school board believes it cannot provide a safe environment for staff and pupils during the current emergency, they must determine what steps would need to be taken to create one.
If after all appropriate actions have been taken and the school cannot provide a safe environment, it must remain closed, the organization said.
The INTO said that in such a scenario the school will continue to support pupils learning at home until such a time as the board believes it is possible to reopen in a safe way.
It has also sought clarification on a number of issues, including access to Covid-19 leave, teachers who are in “at-risk groups”, teachers who are pregnant, teachers with childcare responsibilities, and teachers who are living with or caring for vulnerable people.
The INTO said it is keen to ensure that its members can be confident that when they return to school on a full-time basis that their return will be to working environments where every precaution and practical step has been taken to protect both themselves and their pupils from Covid-19.
It said schools will need an appropriate and robust cleaning regime in place, which will require extra funding and that public health advice should underpin preparations in advance of reopening.
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