Hartlepool families have their say on children returning to school after coronavirus lockdown

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to address the nation on Sunday, May 10 and reveal more information about ‘the new normal’ and how things will reopen following weeks of lockdown restrictions.

In our Facebook poll, we asked: “Are you ready to send your children back to school in June if that is the guidance when lockdown measures are eased?”

At time of writing, 71% of around 900 voters answered no.

Some parents raised concerns about the balance of children missing out on valuable learning while being able to stay safe in the classroom.

This is what you had to say on the Hartlepool Mail Facebook page:

Tracy Nolan: “No the rates are still rising in the UK, if they open schools back up it will allow the second wave to hit.”

Victoria Turnedge: “I totally agree that kids need to be back at school as they’re missing out on valuable learning but only if there are measures in place.”

Sue Tull: “I totally agree children should be getting their education but come on, what’s education if you die of this virus.”

Alan Pinder: “Anyone out there tell me how kids can stay socially distanced in a class of 30. How a teacher can communicate with pupils with a mask on. How young children can wear PPE correctly all day?”

Christopher Totty: “Definitely if the controls are in place, kids need to be in school.”

Angela Blakey: “I personally don't think schools should go back until at least September, it's not just about putting the children in a classroom it's also about the teachers and staff who work with them and then the issue of all the parents standing in the yard at drop off/pick up times!”

Craig Shipley: “If they say it’s fine then why not. We all act on the guidelines.”

Jamie Sanderson: “Everyone with young kids knows if there's an illness going around they catch it at school and give the whole house it. Mine aren't going back until they have to.”

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