Plans are in place to deliver blended learning to West Lothian pupils, if required.
The Education Executive were informed of the council’s plans to ensure that all pupils receive 50% of in-school learning as part of a blended learning approach, in case pupils are not able to return full-time.
The Depute First Minister announced on Tuesday, June 23, the aim of re-opening all Scottish schools to all pupils on a full-time basis from Wednesday, August 12, subject to scientific and health advice.
Arrangements required for safely re-opening schools will be shared once specific Scottish Government guidance has been received.
The final blended learning plan will be submitted to Education Scotland following consultation with parents, trade unions and staff. Each school will have its own School Recovery Plan in place by 24 June 2020 to take account of local issues.
Executive councillor for education, David Dodds, said: “Thanks to all the officers across the council who have put a huge amount of work into the plans to allow our schools to safely re-open using the blended learning approach, which remains the contingency plan.
“Changing the way schools operate is an extremely difficult and complex task, and involves all aspects of school life such as learning, school transport, school meals, availability of resources and space, and enhanced cleaning.”
Depute chief executive, Dr Elaine Cook, added: “We will let parents/carers know the details of our plans for re-opening schools to all pupils as soon as they can.
“The blended learning model plan remains in place as a contingency and we will continue to follow Scottish Government guidance as it evolves.”
