Schools have been given time to ‘prepare and plan’ ahead

A LOCAL school principal has been reassured by the publication of Stormont’s proposed pathway out of lockdown.

Gavin Gallagher (pictured right), of Omagh Integrated Primary School, said the slow science-led approach taken by the NI Executive in its five-step plan prioritised health and safety.

He said, “Given that any return to schools will be based upon school-specific and school-led Risk Assessment is also a source of reassurance.

“In addition, we now know that schools will only remain open for children of key workers until September at the earliest, and this provides time to prepare and plan. Preparing to reopen will be an immense task for school leaders.”

But Mr Gallagher also has some concerns about the document as it stands. He said, “At present, there is a lack of detail as to what phrases such as ‘part time’ and ‘blended learning’ will mean in practice and we would also welcome clarity on key issues such as ‘priority groupings’, class sizes and provision for social distancing.

“School leaders will look forward to the support and guidance of our employing authorities as we plan ahead.”