COVID-19: 'Listen to teachers in school reopening debate'
20 May 2020
Dr Catherine Foley, Associate Professor in the Institute of Education at the University of Reading, said:
“Over the last few weeks there has been growing pressure on teachers to return to work from some quarters of the press, as the debate rages over when, and how, to reopen schools.
“The irony of the argument to reopen schools is that they never really closed. Almost overnight, schools adapted to provide classwork, manage the chaotic free school meals system and check on vulnerable pupils remotely whilst staying open for children most in need. This is a phenomenal achievement.
“Of course teachers are desperate to see their classes again, and there is no substitute for face-to-face teaching. However, it is misguided to suggest reopening schools is a simple process. It is hard to see how the ambition of bringing back all pupils before the summer safely is possible.
“There are key two issues with the declared ‘cap’ on class sizes. Firstly it implies that 15 children and their teacher can fit into a typical classroom whilst maintaining social distancing – which they can’t. Secondly it implies that typical primary schools have double the number of classrooms that they need in normal circumstances, but most primary schools are usually full to the brim.
“Teachers are already either teaching children of key workers, as they have throughout lockdown, or working hard providing home schooling materials for dozens of others. Taking them away from this risks not only their safety but the continuity of learning they have worked so hard to establish.
“Head teachers, teachers and all who work in school deserve our respect and support, and most of us all for us to listen to their professional opinion.”