Shut, open, and shut again: School closure key datespublished at 09:30 BST
09:30 BST
Image source, Getty Images
We’ve previously heard from the inquiry chair that school closures during the pandemic had a “severe and, for many, long-lasting” impact on children.
Here’s a refresher on what was going on in schools between 2020 and 2021:
March 2020: First lockdown
All four nations announce school closures from 23 March – except for the children of essential workers and those deemed most vulnerable.
Summer 2020: Phased reopening
Pupils are phased back into schools over the summer. Exams are cancelled, including GCSEs, A-levels, National 5s and Highers.
September 2020: Back to school
Pupils are back in school with measures including bubbles – only spending time with one small group of people – and social distancing.
January 2021: Open and shut
In England, many schools open on 4 January, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson announces a third lockdown in England that same day. The next day, all schools and colleges close to most pupils with remote learning until February half term.
February – March 2021: Return
A phased reopening of schools across the nations begins in February and March.
Summer 2021: Exams cancelled (again)
For the second year in a row, exams are cancelled. Grades are decided by teachers based on a combination of mock exams, coursework and essays.