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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Jessica Sansome

Ministers launch back to school campaign to assure parents' it is safe

Ministers are launching a new campaign to encourage parents to send their children back to school.

As it stands, all pupils will be expected back in the classroom in September.

The #backtoschoolsafely drive will aim to assure parents that it will be safe when their children do return to school - with some probably not having been seen since March.

The campaign will highlight the measures being put in place to minimise the risk of coronavirus transmission.

It will be featured in newspapers, on TV, radio and billboard adverts and will emphasise the importance of organised learning to children' development.

It will point to guidance, endorsed by Public Health England, to ensure schools are Covid-secure.

The measures include staggered break times, increased hygiene and hand-washing and keeping pupils in consistent groups.

It also encourages staff and pupils to walk or cycle to school whenever possible.

Speaking ahead of the campaign launch on Monday, education secretary Gavin Williamson said: "The Government is committed to doing everything necessary to deliver on our national priority of all students returning to schools and colleges in September.

"All children deserve to be back in school as it is the best place for their education and well-being.

"I know families are growing more confident that schools and colleges are ready and waiting to get back to teaching, with the right protective measures in place.

"As the start of term approaches, now is the time for families to think about the practicalities of returning to school in September, whether that’s reassuring themselves that school is the best place for their child to be, or planning the school run to avoid public transport where possible."

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