Schools and Nurseries Set to Reopen Across England from June 1, Says PM
The Prime Minister has confirmed that schools, colleges, and nurseries across England are on track to welcome more children from 1 June.
Primary Pupils and Early Years to Return First
From next month, primary schools will open their doors to Reception, Year 1, and Year 6 children. Meanwhile, nurseries and early years providers will start accepting children of all ages again.
Older Students to Follow Mid-June
Secondary schools, sixth forms, and further education colleges will offer face-to-face lessons for Year 10 and Year 12 students, plus 16-19 education learners preparing for next year’s exams. This phased return is expected to kick off from 15 June, with roughly a quarter of these students attending at any one time.
PM Praises Teachers and Staff Amidst Challenges
“Teachers, childcare workers and support staff have done a brilliant job throughout the pandemic,” the PM praised today. Staff have continued remote learning for many children while providing face-to-face care for vulnerable kids and those of critical workers.
The government acknowledges some schools may face hurdles reopening immediately and pledged support to ensure all can open as soon as possible.
Strict Safety Checks Before Wider Return
Reopening schools will only proceed if the government’s five key tests are met by 28 May. These tests include:
- Ensuring the NHS can cope with critical care demand.
- Seeing a sustained drop in COVID-19 death rates.
- Reliable data confirming falling infection rates.
- Having testing and PPE supply ready to meet demand.
- Confidence that easing measures won’t trigger a second peak.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson led consultations with schools, teachers, and unions to prepare for reopening. The Department for Education has issued detailed guidance to keep children and staff safe, including:
- Smaller class sizes grouped to avoid mixing.
- Staggered breaks, lunches, and drop-off/pick-up times.
- More frequent cleaning and use of outdoor spaces.
Testing will be available to all children and staff showing symptoms to quickly identify cases and use contact tracing.
Children should also avoid public transport where possible, following general health advice.
“This has been a difficult time for the entire country. Education and childcare staff have stepped up to the challenge, making sure children and young people have continued to be supported throughout the past ten weeks,” Williamson said.
“Our priority is the education and welfare of all children and young people across the country. That is why we want to start a phased wider opening of nurseries, school and colleges informed by the best possible scientific and medical advice.”
“We will continue to work with the sector to support them to prepare for wider opening and ensure all children and young people can continue to receive the best care, education and training possible.”
