Council to delay pupils' return over Covid cases
A town which has been hit by significant numbers of Covid cases says it will be delaying the return of pupils to primary schools.
The Welsh Government has announced it plans to reopen schools for younger pupils from Monday, February 22.
But Wrexham Council says it is delaying the return due to the high coronavirus rates in the borough.
A statement from the council said: "Children will not be returning to schools in Wrexham until Friday, February 26 at the very earliest – depending on local coronavirus levels after half-term.
"Headteachers will share more detailed information with parents and carers after the half-term holiday, once coronavirus levels have been reviewed.
"And even then, the council and headteachers will continue to monitor local levels, and will review arrangements if needed.
"This is particularly important given the continuing high levels of coronavirus in the area."
Councillor Phil Wynn, Wrexham Council’s lead member for education, said: “Coronavirus levels have been much worse in Wrexham compared to many other parts of Wales in recent weeks, so this is a cautious approach we’re taking.
“We’ll monitor the local situation continually, and will work with schools to review and finalise arrangements after half-term.
Priority
“Foundation phase learners will not return until February 26 at the very earliest, and headteachers will keep parents fully informed.
“It’s all about helping to keep people safe, and the wellbeing of our pupils, staff, parents, carers and wider communities is our priority.”
Councillor Mark Pritchard, leader of the council, added: “We’re working with primary head teachers, school governors, Public Health Wales and Welsh Government to make sure the return to school is both safe and sustainable.
“We must remember that this is a terrible virus, and we can’t afford to drop our guard.
“This is why it’s so important that we work in partnership to keep our children, school employees and the communities where our schools are located as safe as we possibly can.”
Karen Evans, chief officer for education and early intervention, said: “With the council’s support, schools will be planning carefully for the return of foundation phase pupils, taking into account the local situation after half-term.
“I’d also like to reiterate our thanks to parents and carers of older children, who will continue to learn from home.
“We know that remote-learning presents many challenges for families trying to manage work and home responsibilities, and we’re truly grateful to parents, children and staff for their continued efforts.”
