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07
Sept 2020
Union concerns over disabled teachers returning to district's schools
Teachers’ unions have said they are concerned about the safety of teachers with disabilities returning to school in the Harrogate district. Most schools re-open tomorrow morning.
Sharon Calvert, local representative for the NASUWT Teachers’ Union, said the union had received particular concern from those who work in secondary schools.
It comes as pupils are set to return to school this week with a number of “significant changes” in place at schools across the district in an effort to abide by social distancing guidelines.
But Ms Calvert said unions are still concerned over the safety of vulnerable teachers who may be at risk from the virus and what procedures are in place to protect staff.
She said:
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- Schools across the district are set to reopen, staggered finish times and year group separation are some of the safety measures being imposed.
- Parents in the district have said they are “delighted” to have their children’s education resume
Union bosses said they have offered their members advice and guidance on returning to school, including a feedback form on the safety of their workplace.
It comes as schools across the district have put in place measures ahead of the return of pupils for the new term.
Measures include wearing face masks and separating year groups.
Among those to have announced the adaptations is Harrogate Grammar School with a number of “significant changes” in place to ensure safety and limit coronavirus outbreaks.
The school has reorganised classrooms and the cafeteria, staggered lunch and finish times and put in place a contingency plan for those needing to self-isolate. Additional cleaning staff have also been hired.
Meanwhile, North Yorkshire County Council has put on extra buses in the district in order to reduce the risk of coronavirus among pupils going back to school.
The Department for Education has said it is committed to ensuring that pupils and staff return safely to school.
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