Commenting on the Government’s easing of Plan B measures for schools, Paul Whiteman, general secretary for school leaders’ union, NAHT said:

“The Prime Minister’s statement about lifting plan B measures will feel, to many school leaders, at odds with the current situation on the ground. Mass disruption is ongoing, with high numbers of staff and pupils absent. School leaders are telling us they still feel very much in the eye of the Covid storm.

“The reality for many children and young people is that Covid continues to seriously disrupt the normal rhythm of schools. Parents and teachers alike will be hopeful that we have passed the peak of infections from Omicron, but it is imperative that schools continue to be supported by government to keep the gates open, as we emerge from the depths of winter disruption.”