Covid-19: Impact on Education — [Mr Laurence Robertson in the Chair]

Mr Bradley highlighted the significant impact of school closures on children, particularly vulnerable ones, noting spikes in abuse referrals during lockdowns. He emphasized the need for social support alongside academic catch-up and called for more extracurricular activities, especially sports to address health and fitness inequalities. He also questioned the adequacy of current mental health support in schools and suggested that ongoing teacher-led assessments might be a better alternative to formal testing for younger students post-pandemic.

Jim Shannon highlighted the long-term damage to children's education and social skills due to the pandemic, emphasizing the need for additional support through summer schools funded by the Northern Ireland Education Minister. He mentioned that £5 million has been allocated for mental health support in schools and advocated for replicating similar programmes UK-wide. Shannon also noted the importance of addressing the mental health conditions caused by the fear and uncertainty among children of all ages, particularly those who have anxiety about returning to school.

Concerned about the impact of covid on education, particularly regarding mandatory testing and grade inflation. Stressed that 100,000 people responded to a consultation supporting voluntary testing but noted that teachers favoured mandatory tests. Highlighted issues with national tutoring programme reaching only 125,000 out of 1.5 million kids eligible for free school meals in his constituency. Called for standardised national written tests and suggested use of sugar tax money for mental health support. Agrees with the hon. Gentleman that schools in sound financial positions pre-pandemic have received little financial support, leading them to deplete reserves and face potential inadequate ratings from Ofsted due to increased cleaning costs up to £4,000 a month. Also argues that BTEC exams are legally required for certain courses to ensure students possess necessary skills for employment.

Paying tribute to staff, parents and children for a smooth return to school, Sarah Olney asked for clarity on the use of face masks in secondary schools and expressed concern over the lack of standardisation in exam results. She highlighted funding issues facing many schools due to increased costs from covid-secure measures and a loss of income from facility hires and grants. Olney also stressed the importance of addressing individual student needs through direct school funding for catch-up activities.

Concerned about safety measures in schools, delays in distributing laptops to children, missed opportunities for vaccinating school staff, and the impact of exams on students from disadvantaged backgrounds.