Leicestershire Schools should only reopen where head teachers support it- Leicestershire Liberal Democrats

Leicestershire Liberal Democrats have called on the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to allow Head Teachers in the county to make the decision if it is safe to reopen their schools yet.

Many teachers, parents and Education Unions believe Primary Schools should not reopen on Monday due to the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus more widely

Leader of the main opposition Lib Dem group on Leicestershire County Council, Councillor Simon Galton said "The constant changes to guidance issued by Ministers has created uncertainty and confusion. The Government should trust head teachers to do what's best for the children and communities they serve. Leicestershire County Council should support any school which remains closed and resist pressure from remote politicians based in London."

Leicestershire Lib Dem Children and Young People's spokesman Councillor Geoff Welsh said "In Tier 4 areas Head teachers should have the power to close their school. They are the ones on the ground and know the local situation in terms of Covid infection rates within the school. Headteachers are also in a position to take soundings from parents in the area and be able measure the local community viewpoint on the school opening or remaining closed."

Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council's Children and Young People's champion Councillor Robin Webber-Jones said "'Our young people need certainty about how they are being assessed and that needs to be realistic given the extraordinary circumstances we are in. I hope that the government responds quickly to the data that is emerging and does the right thing for children and families while ensuring that things like free school meals and digital support are in place"