4. Statement by the Minister for Education: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:40 pm on 29 April 2020.

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Photo of Jayne Bryant Jayne Bryant Labour 4:40, 29 April 2020

Thank you, Minister, for all the work that you and your officials are doing at this time. Headteachers, teaching staff and of course parents and young people have been able to adapt amazingly during this time. I know that many teachers and staff are going above and beyond to make sure their pupils continue to learn and are staying safe, and this can't be underestimated. 

When we're finally able to ease pupils back safely to school, clear and reassuring communication will be crucial. Parents and staff must be reassured of their safety, and everyone must understand the reasoning behind why some children may return before others. You've mentioned in your statement that communication is key to transition as smoothly as possible. What procedures will be put in place to ensure that those young people who find school a refuge, and the teaching workforce who have been through so much, will be supported in the weeks and months ahead, following their return to school?