A statement on the return to school from 4 January 2021

John Biggs, Mayor of Tower Hamlets, said:

"The government has announced that it will review the reopening of primary and secondary schools in England by 18 January. Prior to any full reopening, all vulnerable children and the children of key workers can attend school from Monday 4 January, and secondary school students from exam years (Years 11 & 13) from Monday 11 January. Others will taught remotely.

The delayed return has been introduced to drive down possible transmission of Covid-19 in Tower Hamlets, and across the country, which has increased rapidly in recent weeks. Our priority remains supporting our children to learn with minimal interruption, in the classroom where possible.

Please contact your child’s school if you have any questions. We continue to follow government guidance whilst working closely with our education partners, and public health colleagues, to support learning safely in Tower Hamlets."

[ENDS]

Notes to editors:

• GOV.UK press release - 1 January 2021 - Contingency framework implemented across London Boroughs contains more details of restrictions on primary schools that will be introduced across London.