A Bucks-based MP has revealed that he is ‘pleased’ following the Prime Minister’s announcement that schools are to reopen on March 8.
Schools across the country have been shut due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic since the start of January, following the introduction of lockdown – the UK's third since March last year.
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However, Rob Butler, who represents Aylesbury, was happy with today’s announcement, as he believes it gives ‘clarity’ to students, teachers and parents.
Following the start of the first lockdown in March last year, schools were shut for just under three months.
Mr Butler said: “Local schools are doing a fantastic job at the moment – both for the children of key workers and vulnerable children physically in schools, and for others studying remotely at home.
“Last week I spoke to headteachers in primary, secondary, and special schools and the one thing they wanted most was plenty of notice about when they will reopen to all their students.
Boris Johnson addressed the nation on Jan 4 (PA)
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“So, I’m pleased the Prime Minister has been able to provide that clarity today, and set out that the earliest date for a full return will be March 8.
“Of course, I had hoped children would have been able to get back to class sooner, because school is not just the best place to learn, but also crucial for mental health and social development.”
The PM’s announcement is on the basis that the case and death rate were to drop significantly, following a rapid increase in both a couple of weeks ago.
This is due to a second strain of the virus being a lot stronger than first anticipated.
Mr Butler continued: “But it is clear we need a little more time, and I am reassured that the Prime Minister has confirmed that reopening schools is a national priority.
“We can all play our own part in helping get children into the classroom again by sticking to the rules on coronavirus – staying home to protect the NHS and save lives – so we can all return to normal as soon as possible.”
So far, over 100,000 people have died in the UK with Covid-related issues since March last year.
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