Responding to the announcement by the Education Minister today, Councillor Ian Roberts (Flintshire), WLGA Education Spokesperson said:

“This way forward will give an opportunity for all children to have face to face interaction within limited numbers with their teachers and friends over a four-week period in school settings which will have been significantly adapted for social distancing. It’s an incredibly valuable opportunity for pupils to check in and catch up over the last few weeks of the term, which will be important to make sure pupils, families and teachers and school staff alike are mentally, emotionally and practically ready for the new normal in September.”

“The plan also ensures that parents won’t be sanctioned for not taking up this offer due to any safety concerns that they may have – attendance will be voluntary.”

“Conversations will be had locally between local authorities, headteachers and teaching unions to discuss the operational requirements to roll out this plan in individual school settings.”

Councillor Andrew Morgan (Rhondda Cynon Taf), WLGA Leader said:

“We welcome the cautious and considered approach announced today by the Minister. Local authorities will take time to work through the detail of the forthcoming guidance to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place. Local authorities, Welsh Government and teaching unions have worked closely over the past few weeks on a way forward which is agreeable to everyone.

“There are three and a half weeks until this plan is implemented, which gives us all an opportunity to work together to put all necessary arrangements in place in school settings to welcome learners on a voluntary basis.”

-ENDS-

NOTES FOR EDITORS: Please see more details of the Education Minister’s plan on this link: https://gov.wales/check-catch-prepare-summer-and-september-all-schools-wales-enter-next-phase