Schools Set to Reopen for More Pupils From 1 June, Confirms PM
England’s schools, colleges, and nurseries are on track to welcome back more children from 1 June, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed today (24 May 2020).
Who’s Returning and When?
Primary schools will reopen for Reception, Year 1, and Year 6 pupils. Nurseries and early years providers will start welcoming children of all ages again.
Secondary schools, sixth forms, and colleges will begin in-person lessons for Year 10 and Year 12 students from 15 June, helping them prepare for exams next year. Only about a quarter of these secondary students will be in at any one time to ensure safety.
Thanks to Teachers and Staff
The Prime Minister applauded teachers, childcare workers, and support staff for their “brilliant work” during the pandemic, which included remote education and supporting vulnerable children and those of critical workers.
Johnson also recognised some schools might not reopen immediately, pledging continued government support to help any struggling schools get back on track.
Safety First: The Government’s Five Tests
The reopening depends on meeting five strict government tests by 28 May:
- Protect the NHS’s ability to cope with critical and specialist care.
- See a steady drop in COVID-19 death rates.
- Clear evidence from SAGE that infection rates are decreasing.
- Ensure testing capacity and PPE supplies meet demand.
- Prevent any measures that risk a second peak overwhelming the NHS.
In the coming days, the PM will update the public on the progress towards these tests.
School Safety Measures Laid Out
The Department for Education has published detailed guidelines to keep children, teachers, and parents safe. Measures include:
- Smaller class sizes with children grouped to avoid mixing.
- Staggered break, lunch, drop-off, and pick-up times.
- More frequent cleaning, less shared equipment, and use of outdoor spaces.
Testing will be available for children, staff, and their families if symptoms appear. Negative tests mean students and staff can return; positives will trigger test-and-trace procedures.
Children will also be encouraged to avoid public transport where possible.
Education Secretary Commends Staff
“This has been a difficult time for the entire country. Education and childcare staff have stepped up to the challenge, making sure children and young people have continued to be supported throughout the past ten weeks.”
“Our priority is the education and welfare of all children and young people across the country. That is why we want to start a phased wider opening of nurseries, schools, and colleges, informed by the best possible scientific and medical advice.”
“We will continue to work with the sector to support them in preparing for wider opening and ensure all children and young people can continue to receive the best care, education, and training possible.”
