Statement from Leader of Gateshead Council regarding the return of schools
Councillor Martin Gannon, Leader of Gateshead Council has issued the following statement in response to the Government's decision to close primary schools in tier 4 elsewhere in the country:
"In light of the Government's decision to keep primary schools in London and parts of the south east closed, we are concerned about the safety of the schools in Gateshead.
Obviously we are now also in tier 4, figures in the borough, along with the rest of the region, have risen significantly (Gateshead is up from 107 cases per 100,000 on 14 December to 397 per 100,000 of the population as of 1 January), and along with the impact of the new variant, the safety of our residents is paramount.
Our schools have been amazing throughout the pandemic, showing incredible resilience and all of our school staff have done everything they can to protect our young people and their families.
The national position may change once again, however if it does not and any Gateshead primary school feels unable to open, then we, as a Council, will fully support their decision to move to online learning.
Schools where possible will remain open to support vulnerable children and those whose parents are key workers.
We understand that this is a very difficult time for our parents, carers and school staff as well as all of our young people, but if we all work together we can help to reduce the infection rates in Gateshead.
We would ask that you check your individual school's website for the latest information and any updates relating to closures."
Councillor Martin Gannon, Leader of Gateshead Council has issued the following statement in response to the Government's decision to close primary schools in tier 4 elsewhere in the country:
"In light of the Government's decision to keep primary schools in London and parts of the south east closed, we are concerned about the safety of the schools in Gateshead.
Obviously we are now also in tier 4, figures in the borough, along with the rest of the region, have risen significantly (Gateshead is up from 107 cases per 100,000 on 14 December to 397 per 100,000 of the population as of 1 January), and along with the impact of the new variant, the safety of our residents is paramount.
Our schools have been amazing throughout the pandemic, showing incredible resilience and all of our school staff have done everything they can to protect our young people and their families.
The national position may change once again, however if it does not and any Gateshead primary school feels unable to open, then we, as a Council, will fully support their decision to move to online learning.
Schools where possible will remain open to support vulnerable children and those whose parents are key workers.
We understand that this is a very difficult time for our parents, carers and school staff as well as all of our young people, but if we all work together we can help to reduce the infection rates in Gateshead.
We would ask that you check your individual school's website for the latest information and any updates relating to closures."
