‘We Owe It To The Children' To Get Them Back To School, Says Minister

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson yesterday made a passionate appeal for teachers to return to the classroom, saying we “owe it to the children”.

- David Williamson

He used the Downing Street briefing to warn of the consequences for the country’s most vulnerable youngsters if they do not return to school soon.

Mr Williamson defended plans for a “cautious, phased return” and sought to address the fears of teaching unions that are demanding detailed evidence that it is safe for schools in England to reopen.

He said: “The longer that schools are closed the more children miss out. Teachers know this.

“Teachers know that there are children out there that have not spoken or played with another child of their own age for two months. They know there are children from difficult or very unhappy homes for whom school is the happiest moment in their week and it’s also the safest place for them to be.”

Mr Williamson signalled that special help may be provided during the summer to help children make up for lost time.