Children's Commissioner calls for all years to return to school

Jersey's Children's Commissioner has called for the government to let all year groups return to school.

Deborah McMillan says education is a human right which all children are entitled to.

She points to the new Nightingale Hospital, which was built in a matter of weeks, and asks why the same cannot be done for education.

Deborah McMillan says education is a human right which all children are entitled to. Credit: ITV Channel TV

Schools in Jersey have been closed since 23 March, to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

Children of essential workers have been allowed in for lessons and supervision.

Last week, year six returned to States-run primary schools, and years 10 and 12 returned to secondary schools. Some private schools are bringing more year groups back in, on a staggered basis.

All other students continue to follow the curriculum online from home, with remote support from their teachers.

Ms McMillan is also concerned about how beneficial remote learning is for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In a statement, the Government of Jersey said: "The Education Minister’s approach remains to re-open schools through a phased approach, following the latest medical advice from the Scientific and Technical Advisory Cell (STAC). There have been, and continue to be, detailed and constructive discussions between school leaders, trades unions and officials. It is hoped that an announcement can be made soon to provide as much notice as possible to parents and students.”