House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Education Update
30 November 2020 · Department for Education
Proposed by Gavin Williamson Con Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The statement addresses the continuation of in person schooling despite the pandemic, emphasizing the low risk to children and staff
- A new Covid 19 workforce fund has been announced to support schools facing significant challenges due to staff absences and financial pressures
- The fund will help cover costs from November until the end of term for eligible institutions, in addition to existing funding measures
Issue summary
The statement addresses the continuation of in-person schooling despite the pandemic, emphasizing the low risk to children and staff while highlighting potential harms from school closures.
Action requested
A new Covid-19 workforce fund has been announced to support schools facing significant challenges due to staff absences and financial pressures during the pandemic. The fund will help cover costs from November until the end of term for eligible institutions, in addition to existing funding measures like the £1 billion catch-up fund.
Key facts
- SAGE published papers on the latest evidence regarding coronavirus transmission in schools.
- Schools can take actions to reduce risks through guidance controls.
- A new contingency framework prioritises vulnerable children and critical workers' children.
- The Covid-19 workforce fund supports schools with high staff absences and financial pressures.