The national union representing school support staff is urging ministers to allow headteachers to move all lessons online from next month in a bid to “rescue Christmas”.
Public service union Unison, which represents staff including teaching assistants, cleaners, catetakers and catering assistants says “the only way” to stop infections getting out of control and reduce the risk of families being forced to self-isolate on Christmas Day is to switch to online teaching from December 10 - two weeks before the end of term.
It also wants schools and local authorities to be able to immediately introduce a mix of classroom and home-based learning - especially in towns and cities with high infection rates such Hull in order to minimise the number of children in school at any one time.
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Unison’s head of education Jon Richards said Government officials “must step back and let education leaders make their own decisions”.
He said:” Schools and local authorities know what is best for pupils, staff and the wider community.
“Schools in Covid-hit areas are struggling to stay open. High numbers of children and staff are sick or self-isolating - and it’s only going to get worse.
“Measures such as increased social distancing and virtual learning are vital in the run up to the festive season. It’s the only way to stop infections spiraling out of control and to save Christmas.
“Parents must be supported by employers so children can learn from home properly. The government must ensure funding is available for laptops and other home-learning kit so disadvantaged children don’t lose out.”
Last month, Unison said it was encouraging school contractors to pay full sick to cleaners and catering staff - otherwise they may be unable to afford to self-isolate and could potentially be a source of spread of the virus in schools.
The DfE has contacted for comment.
