Schools expect half of families to keep children at home instead of returning to classroom

More than a quarter – 29 per cent – of teachers will only be able to work from home, according to a National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) study.

Primary schools in England have been told to reopen to pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 from this week.

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But the NFER report, based on a survey of more than 1,200 senior leaders in schools in England, suggests that headteachers are expecting nearly half – 46 per cent – of families to keep their children at home.

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A separate poll of parents, carried out by the Early Years Alliance, found that only 45 per cent of parents whose childcare providers are opening from today are planning to take up their place.

Schools, colleges and nurseries across the UK closed 10 weeks ago due to the Covid-19 outbreak, with classes offered only for vulnerable youngsters and the children of key workers.

Ministers have come under pressure from education unions and council leaders, who have urged the Government to reconsider its plans to open schools more widely from June 1 amid safety concerns.

Findings from a recent survey of local authorities show that more than 20 councils across England are advising schools not to open to more pupils this week, with some citing fears that the NHS Test and Trace system will not be ‘robust enough’ to help.

Carole Willis, chief executive of NFER, said: “Government guidance needs to be tailored and responsive, allowing flexibility for school leaders to use their professional judgment.

"This will be necessary to manage the differing and changeable levels of staffing, parental choices and practical accommodation issues that each school is likely to experience."

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic our decisions have been based on the best scientific and medical advice, with the welfare of children and staff at the heart of all considerations.”