Primary schools to be given flexibility to bring back more pupils

Headteachers are being encouraged to invite back more primary pupils before the summer, where they have capacity to do so

Primary schools in England are to be given greater flexibility to invite back more pupils, but only if the school has capacity within existing guidelines and if protective measures are in place.

Updated guidance published yesterday (15 June) gives heads and school leaders the ability to invite back additional children if – having invited back the pupils in eligible year groups - they are able and feel ready to do so within the existing guidance.

Schools will have flexibility to decide which additional pupils to prioritise for return, provided existing guidelines are followed and protective measures are in place, including limiting primary class sizes to no more than 15 pupils.

The Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said he wanted to make sure as many pupils as possible can get back into the classroom and be reunited with their friends and teachers before the summer so long as the schools can maintain the existing guidelines. He also encouraged parents to take a place for their children if they could.