Cautious welcome for phased return to get children back in the classroom

Subject to final confirmation, Scotland will see early learning and childcare restarting, as well as a return to full-time education for P1 -3 and a part-time return for senior phase pupils in secondary schools.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement in the Scottish Parliament, stating restrictions will be reviewed again on February 16.

Mr Smyth said: “People will not be surprised that this latest lockdown is set to continue until at least the end of February. It’s clear this virus will not be under control until vaccines are rolled out more widely.

“I know how difficult that will be to hear and many will understandably feel worn down by living under more and more restrictions.

“However, parents and carers will welcome the news that a phased return looks set to begin for getting children back to school.

“Young people have been missing their friends and online learning is no substitute for being in school.

“I welcome the timetable for schools reopening, but it remains a disgrace there is no routine testing as well as consideration of vaccinations for teachers, once completed for the most vulnerable.

“I would reiterate that any parents who are required to home school but don't have access to a computer to get in touch, as support for this is available.

"I would also urge employers to look carefully at whether they can furlough staff with childcare pressures.

“But please remember no matter how difficult it seem, everyone should continue to abide by the rules and stay home as much as they can.

“As we’ve seen in the past few months, this virus has the ability to spread at alarming rates and we must do all we can to help halt that spread.

“As most businesses remain closed, the Government also needs to get its act together to support companies who need it.

"It’s one thing for the Government to announce schemes and grants but so far many of those haven’t even opened for applications, never mind paid out.”