Highlights of the week ending 29 January 2021
The reopening of schools has once again dominated the news.Ìý
LabourÌýbegan the week asking an Urgent Question on the government’s plans.
Wednesday saw theÌýPrime Minister’sÌýstatement which provided some detail, including the hope that schools in England could begin reopening from 8 March. Schools will be given two weeks’ notice before opening.
Welsh First Minister,ÌýMark Drakeford, later announced some students inÌýWalesÌýcould become the first in the UK to return to the classroom. If rates continue to fall some primary school children could begin a phased return from 22 February.Ìý
A report from OfstedÌýfound that pupils’ engagement and motivation remain a significant challenge for schools providing remote learning.
FE finances were once again under the spotlight as theÌýPublic Accounts CommitteeÌýreported on the sustainability of the sector. The chair, Meg Hillier, called on ministers to take a hold of the situation – something which will be needed if deliver on levelling up and building the skills of the nation. In support of that agenda,ÌýGillian KeeganÌýannounced that employers can now apply for a £1000 cash boost to assist them to take on new trainees.
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