We are petitioning government to make our schools safer.
The resurgence of coronavirus since the full reopening of schools in early September is creating big challenges across our school system. Thousands of schools nationwide have sent ‘bubbles’ home following outbreaks. This has forced thousands of children and educators into self-isolation, leading to part closures and at times full closures of schools.

We need the government to urgently act to make our schools safer so they can continue to be open providing a vital service for our communities. Young people missing out on education is damaging for their development and their wellbeing.

The government so far has failed to deliver a world leading Test, Track and Isolate system which is threatens the safety of our school settings. Along with this physical distancing in schools is impossible as schools do not have the staffing levels, space or extra funding sorely needed.

The government had also promised that struggling families would receive all of the technological support they would need to be able to access remote learning. Many families are still waiting for that support meaning many of those in self-isolation miss out as are unable to access online learning.

The government has so far failed to listen and we call on them to change course. Act and invest now. Make our schools and communities safer.

We are calling on the government to ensure:

1) An immediate increase in the availability of testing for staff and pupils.
Many are stuck at home, waiting for a test or results, hampering efforts to control the virus or get back to the classroom if results come back negative. We want asymptomatic testing of staff and older pupils.

2) 'Nightingale' classrooms to safeguard social distancing
The taking over of public buildings to allow expanded space for classrooms, smaller bubbles and better social distancing. Bigger class sizes lead to bigger transmission networks and our class sizes are amongst the largest in Europe. The Government should employ both supply and newly-qualified teachers who are yet to find work to reduce class sizes and allow learning to continue.

3) Protection for at risk educators
At risk staff should be supported to work from home, especially in areas where cases are highest.

4) A guarantee that school health and safety costs will be reimbursed
The cost of implementing Covid-secure schools is leaving schools short. Safety must not be compromised because of financial constraints. All Covid-19-related costs, including staffing and health and safety costs, must be fully-funded by Government.

We want schools and colleges to remain safe and open. But Government must do everything it can to make this a reality.