Unions welcome re-opening of schools but say parents should 'follow their instincts'

Credit: ITV Channel TV

The head of a teaching union in Jersey has told ITV News she is confident sufficient measures will be in place to ensure a safe return for teachers and pupils when schools reopen on 8 June.

Marina Mauger of the NASUWT praised the work that is already being done on the health and safety aspects of the return, as well as the dialogue unions have had with government so far.

On Thursday, Jersey's Education Minister announced a phased return to school, initially for years six, ten and 12.

Marina Mauger says parents should do what they thing is right for their children.

On the issue of parents still being reluctant to send their children to school she urged parents to do what is right for them and their children.

In Thursday's announcement, the Education Minister confirmed parents would not be sanctioned if they chose to keep their children at home.

Senator Tracey Vallois also said the situation would be reassessed two weeks after the initial return, and that consideration would be given to whether other year groups should also be allowed to go back to school at that point.

Marina Mauger said she thinks physical distancing rules will make it difficult to extend capacity much beyond what has already been proposed.