MPs Debate Impact of COVID19 on Education

Posted on 19th March, 2021

 

The debate was led by Petitions Committee Member Tom Hunt MP. MPs from all parties could take part, and a Minister will respond on behalf of the Government.

"Secondly, on mental health, research published by MIND showed that 73% of those at school feel as though their mental health has deteriorated over the past year. ... Another point that I would make is that I think we should be careful in the language that we use. There is a big challenge in front of us, but we should be aware that the anxiety that many young people feel at the moment is already very significant.(see video here)

Topics discussed included:

  • Cancel GCSE and A-levels in 2021 and replace with Course Work and Teacher Assessment
  • Allow teacher predicted grades for BTEC students
  • Keep schools closed until May
  • Close schools in Tier 4 areas

As children return to school, Birmingham's Children's Trust released the following guidance:

"In light of the current pandemic, lateral flow tests for children and young people in schools and college settings are currently being rolled out as part of the Government’s drive to contain the virus. However, these tests are not compulsory and when it comes to children and young people, their consent or that of their parent(s)/carer(s), is required." (See blog)

On Monday 15 March, MPs debated petitions relating to the impact of covid-19 on education (PDF)

  • Watch the debate (from 6.15pm, Monday 15 March)
  • Read the debate transcript (PDF)
  • Follow the Committee on Twitter and join the discussion

 

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