[ad_1]
Boris Johnson has said that the reopening of schools marks a “truly national effort” to defeat the coronavirus, as pupils prepare to return to classrooms across England.
The first stage of the country blockage relief begins tomorrow, with internal visits to nursing homes that are also part of the first lifting of restrictions.
“The reopening of schools marks a truly national effort to defeat this virus,” said the Prime Minister saying.
“It is because of the determination of each person in this country that we can begin to move closer to a sense of normalcy, and it is right that the first step is to get our young people back in the classroom.”
Pupils in secondary schools in England will receive three COVID-19 lateral flow tests before using home kits twice a week.
Boris Johnson has praised the reopening of schools in England as a ‘truly national effort’
Downing Street says nearly 57 million test kits have been delivered to schools and universities, with some already beginning to test students.
Students at Dean Close School in Cheltenham spoke to Sky News while testing on Saturday.
“I think it’s a good thing, it makes everyone safer knowing who has COVID-19 and who doesn’t,” said student Luke Davis.
“The more people you analyze, the more cases you will detect, which means you can control the spread much more easily. It makes me feel more secure.”
The school’s deputy director of pastoral care, Jacquie Davis, said that despite some concerns about the reliability of the tests, they are seen as vital to ensuring the school can remain open.
“We have had a series of online meetings and chats with parents and students, really emphasizing that fact along with reestablishing social distancing, masks and disinfection, all the things we were doing before Christmas,” he said.
“These lateral flow tests are really part of our way of keeping the school open and not having to isolate children unnecessarily.”
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said Monday “will mark a moment of joy for millions of people across the country.”
Use the Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
No exam is the ‘right way to go,’ says PM
“I don’t underestimate how challenging the last few months have been with some children in class and most at home, but I know how important it is for all children to go back to school, not only for their education but also for their mental health. And wellness, “he said.
Mary Bousted, deputy general secretary of the National Education Union, said: “Children and young people will return to schools and universities in very different moods.
“Some will be eager to see their friends. Others will be very anxious and nervous, especially those who have not been able to fully participate in remote learning.
“Education recovery plans must address these differences and must be understood as a long-term response to the pandemic. Funds will be needed for education recovery in the years to come.”
In Scotland, the rest of the primary school children are scheduled to return from March 15, with the aim that all pupils return to class after Easter. In Wales there is a similar plan.
Mr. Johnson road map for England’s recovery also includes a relaxation of visiting restrictions in nursing homes from Monday.
Until now, visits during the lockdown have been restricted outdoors or with screens. But starting tomorrow, routine indoor visits will be allowed for a designated visitor, who will be screened.
This is good news for Ken Hancock, a resident of Blossom Fields Care Home in Bristol, who has so far only met his family in a special outdoor visiting booth.
“I would be delighted. It’s been a long period since closing. I’m here on my own and I’m excited,” he said.
The house’s director, Christopher Taylor, welcomed the relaxation in visiting rules, but said he is concerned about the effectiveness of lateral flow tests and the risk of inaccurate results.
“I think we have some reservations. We have been using lateral flow tests on houses for quite some time and have seen that they are not always entirely accurate. However, we have some reservations around lateral flow tests have a place,” He said.
“In addition to the fact that all of our staff and residents have received at least one vaccination, we feel more confident. I think that as time goes on and our residents receive their second shot, we will feel more confident.”
But before the loosening of the rules in England, the prime minister has urged people to continue to abide by the rules.
“We are being cautious in our approach not to undo the progress we have made so far and I urge you all not to give up your efforts to keep your families and others safe,” he warned.
