The Leader of Richmond Council met with headteachers this week from the borough's primary schools to discuss their plans for opening their doors to more pupils from 1 June.

Since the lockdown, our schools have remained open for vulnerable children and those of keyworkers, including during school holidays and on bank holidays.

Schools have worked hard, taking innovative approaches to support their pupils with learning at home and have made sure the most vulnerable families have been able to access food parcels, vouchers and other support – including laptops to those most in need.

In line with the Government guidance, schools have been working to make sure they have all the safety measures in place so that they can welcome pupils back from Reception, Year 1 and Year 6.

Whilst this work is still ongoing, Cllr Roberts reiterates that whilst the final decision as to whether schools reopen rests with the headteacher and governors, if schools feel they simply cannot open to more children and ensure the safety of the children and staff, they will have the Council's full support.

The Council urges parents to read the guidance and communication they will have received from their children's schools to understand the local arrangements.

Following the meeting, Cllr Roberts said:"We're working with all our schools to ensure the safety of all children and young people who are currently attending or will be returning to our local schools.

"We want children to go back to school as soon as it is safe to do so and what is clear is that this may be on a phased return for classes or year groups.

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"In line with Government guidance, schools will make decisions on an individual basis, following a risk assessment.

"Safety must come first. If any of our schools feel that they are not able to fully reopen, we will support this decision.

"However, we are however conscious that some families might still be concerned about the health risks of returning to school.

"I respect the personal decision made by each parent and carer regarding the well-being of their child. For those who want to continue to educate their children at home – that is fine. We respect that choice and we know that local schools will offer their support.

"I would like to stress that a huge amount of effort and great work has been demonstrated by our teachers, support staff, parents and children over the recent weeks and months.

"Now it is time for us to pay back all that hard work by supporting each of our schools. I ask parents and carers to keep in contact with your child's school to support your child's return.

"And, if your children do return, please support the school by adhering to the measures they arrange to keep everyone safe.

"Your child's teacher would not for a second want to put a child or themselves at risk, so you can rest assured the systems and procedures they agree to put in place will be as safe as possible."

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See the letter from Cllr Roberts and Cllr Frost to parents