SCHOOLCHILDREN in Coventry will see new rules in place to protect them from spreading coronavirus.
Coventry City Council says all schools have now completed health assessments to improve hygiene in schools.
The arrangements at each school will be different depending on issues such as the size and layout and the number of pupils and, teachers.
Schools may have staggered starts, finishes, different lunch and break time arrangements, new hygiene routines and changes to timetable, but they will all be following the latest advice and guidance to keep everyone safe.
Public Health and the City Council have also created clear detailed plans that cover a variety of issues, such as what to do if individual children display symptoms or if there is an outbreak within a local community or across the city.
Coun Kevin Maton, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming the city’s schoolchildren back to the classroom and helping them to continue with their education.
“In Coventry we are fortunate to have wonderful schools, with excellent and dedicated teachers and staff and we believe that all children need to return to lessons, not only so they can continue their education, but also for their own mental and physical wellbeing.
“This is as important for young children starting school and learning to play with others, as it is for our older students who are facing critical years where their hard work and exams will help them build the careers they want and deserve.
“These are, of course, very difficult and worrying times for us all – children, families and our school staff – and we would like to reassure people that every measure has been taken to make sure our schools are as safe as possible and that all Government guidance has been followed.
“There has already been a great deal of hard work to make this possible, and if we continue to work together, I am sure we can help our city’s children return to a more normal way of life and see another great year of success and enjoyment at our schools.
“If anyone has any concerns, or their child is anxious about the return, we would advise them to speak to the school.”
Parents are asked not to send their children to school if a coronavirus symptom arises.
Kirston Nelson, Director of Education and Skills at the City Council, said: “All our work follows Government guidance and is designed to put the safety of children and staff at the heart of everything we do.
“All education centres and organisations in the city are working closely together, and with regional and national organisations, to make sure that all safety measures are in place and known by all.
“We will continue to monitor guidance closely and make alterations where necessary, and we will keep families informed.”
