Some primary schools reopen in England but parents remain wary
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Primary schools in England are beginning to bring back more pupils but half of parents might not send in their children, surveys suggest.
There is a very mixed local picture in how schools are reopening, and in some areas schools will remain shut.
Children in Reception, Years 1 and 6 are able to return, with many having been out of school for 10 weeks.
It comes as lockdown measures are eased in England, including groups of six people being allowed to meet outside.
Schools have remained open throughout the coronavirus restrictions for the children of key workers and vulnerable children, but on Monday they are inviting back millions more primary pupils.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said children “will be with their teachers and friends again”.
The day will look very different for those pupils who do return – with staggered drop-off times and children staying in small groups of no more than 15 pupils.
A study from the National Foundation for Educational Research, based on 1,200 school leaders, suggests:
46% of parents will keep children at home
50% of parents in schools in disadvantaged areas will keep children at home
25% of teachers are likely to be absent because of health issues for themselves or their families
