Dear Parents and Carers,

As the local lockdown eases and we approach the school autumn term, I would like to express my thanks to you all for your strength in supporting your family during these challenging times.    

Although we recognise there may be concerns for some parents/carers to take the next step of returning their children to school and nursery, there has been mounting evidence to confirm that children are at least as safe at school as in the community.  The science shows that attending school doesn’t seem to increase probability of transmission for children.    

We recognise there will be many questions for parents not just around the safety but also the logistics in getting their children back to school.  To help, we have set up a webpage www.leicester.gov.uk/returntoschool to answer questions that you may have, such as:

• How safe is it for my child to return to school?

• Do I have to send my child back to school?

• How to travel to and from school safely 

We will make sure it is updated regularly as more information and guidance is made available, and in the run up to school return.    

School and nursery leaders are working hard to prepare for all children to return in the autumn term and are following the government and health guidance they have been given in order to make it as safe as possible.  We have also asked all schools to update their risk assessments and to share with staff and parents.  We recommend you check the school’s website for details and dates of opening.    

You can find out more on GOV.UK  as they update the guidance issued for schools and parents.  

We recognise that education is really important for children and that school is the best place for them to learn and we know how essential it is for their mental wellbeing to have social interactions with their peers, carers and teachers.

  
Leicester City Council will continue to do everything we can to support families, schools, staff and governing bodies throughout this challenging time.  If you are unsure about arrangements for your child returning to school, please do check the school’s website or contact your school.  

Finally, we wish the best for those who have received A Levels (13 August) results and whose GCSE (20 August) results are fast approaching.  Support is available for those young people who may need or want to change their plans. Get in touch with Connexions - telephone 0116 454 1770 or email connexions@leicester.gov.uk.  

With best wishes  
Cllr Elly Cutkevlin - Assistant City Mayor with responsibility for Education

PS - please note that school admissions open for online applications on Monday 7 September to start at a primary, junior or secondary school for entry in Autumn 2021.