4th November 2020
INTO has continuously lobbied and met with the managing authorities on behalf of its members, to ensure that their concerns are heard. It has also, at every opportunity, been involved in challenging them as we seek to ensure that advice being given to schools in relation to dealing with COVID-19, is effective and fit for purpose. This work will continue, with INTO officials and elected representatives scrutinising and contesting, where appropriate, the advice and recommendations coming from Management.
The Minister of Education may continue to deny that there is an issue in relation to transmission of the virus within schools, INTO, however is aware that staffing levels were reaching crisis point in many schools prior to 19 October. Even with the break, a return to school appears to signpost a continued staffing crisis. School leaders must be supported by their employing authorities when considering if they can keep their schools open to all pupils on a 5-day basis. Flexibility of attendance in addition to other mitigating factors will be key to reducing the risks in schools created by absent staff.
Guidance for members is available in INTO Bulletin 4: Working Through COVID in Schools (PDF)