School Staff Absences 2022-01-31
2022-01-31
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner is concerned about high staff absence rates in schools and the adequacy of government support to address this issue.
What assessment he has made of the adequacy of Government support to help tackle staff absences in schools. The Department has extended the covid workforce fund to at least the February half-term, so that schools with high absence and financial pressures can continue to access these additional funds.
The Department has extended the covid workforce fund to at least the February half-term, so that schools with high absence and financial pressures can continue to access these additional funds. Other measures include asking former teachers to come forward if they are available to temporarily fill absences in schools during the spring term.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of the adequacy of government support not provided, only mentions extensions and other measures.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
On January 20, over 415,000 pupils and 15% of teachers were absent. Despite this, only 9,000 air purifiers have been promised for approximately 300,000 classrooms in the UK. In comparison, Germany has pledged to subsidise up to 80% of the cost of air cleaning equipment.
On 20 January, more than 415,000 pupils were off school and 15% of teachers were absent, but only 9,000 air purifiers have been promised, for approximately 300,000 classrooms. The Minister lauds the Government response, yet Germany has promised to subsidise 80% of the cost of air cleaning equipment in all schools to ensure that education is not disrupted. Why is he failing to ensure that our pupils have similar levels of protection?
Very simply, because we are taking an evidence-based approach. We have listened to schools and we sent them the carbon dioxide monitors so that they can monitor where classrooms need the extra support. About 3% of classrooms needed that extra support and they are the ones where the devices are being provided entirely funded by the Department.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not address why UK funding for air purifiers is lower than Germany's, only states an evidence-based approach and funds distribution based on need.
Response accuracy