Grantham Journal readers have their say on whether primary school children should return on June 1
In a recent poll, Journal readers voted on whether primary schoolchildren should return in June.
This comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last week that part of the Government’s second phase of lockdown included certain primary-aged children returning to school.
The majority of voters were against Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 classes going back to school in June, with 74.1% of the responses.
Of the 201 people who gave their opinion, 25.9 per cent agreed certain age groups should go back to school next month.
On Facebook, many readers shared their views on the latest government plans for reversing the lockdown in schools.
In favour were the likes of Ross Smith, who said: "Yes, absolutely. Other European countries are managing it, why can’t we?" and Charlotte Jackson, who said: "Yes some children need to go back. SOME children are really starting to suffer mentally. They all have to go back soon and so a phased return is needed. The reason behind the younger children is it is them who will be struggling more with the lack of routine and structure."
There were many comments agreeing that older pupils should go back, such as year sixes but disagreed about younger pupils returning.
Melissa Louise Coleman said: "Older kids yes. Reception no. They have no understanding of distancing. Also if I have one at school and one at home I'd still work from home so may as well continue with both." While Janet Clark said: "No, reception or Year 1 should not go back. They will want to cuddle friends and teachers.
Some readers were totally against primary school pupils returning for the time being.
Sacha Bancroft said: "My sons are at secondary school and college and they will not be going back till September and even then that will only be if I feel it's safe enough to do so. My youngest is high risk and I will not risk any of them for anybody.
Sue Abbott Woitas also disagreed with the plan. She said: "No way! Much too soon, when Covid is still rampant in the UK. The kids are important, and so are the teachers!"
Sarah Joynes said: "No. School rang today to ask if our five year old daughter will be going back as she's in the vulnerable category with a heart condition. I've said no she won't be going plus our son in Year 3 is still at home anyway."
