The government is set for a fresh push to get more primary school children back into the classroom ahead of the summer break.
Last week, education secretary Gavin Williamson dropped plans for all primary school years in England to go back to school before the end of term.
At the time, Mr Williamson confirmed in the House of Commons that the government was not able to open primaries to all children for a month before the summer.
However, plans are set to be overturned again, according to The Daily Telegraph. The newspaper reports that this week the government will state that primary schools can allow pupils of all ages to return before the summer, if they have the necessary space and number of teachers needed to keep children in groups of less than 16.
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Currently, primary schools in England – which closed to most pupils with the coronavirus lockdown in March – are opening to pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6. From Monday, secondary schools and colleges will welcome back Year 10 and Year 12 students.
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However, The Daily Telegraph reports that ministers will this week confirm that schools can take children from other year groups provided they have the capacity to do so safely.
It means limiting class sizes to just 15 while ensuring that protective measures are in place to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The prime minister was said to be particularly concerned about the impact of school closures on disadvantaged children, who lack the same support at home and access to remote learning as others.
A No 10 source said: "The PM is acutely aware that school closures will have a disproportionate impact on all children, and particularly the most disadvantaged and vulnerable children.
"He appreciates the consequences of months out of school, and this package will be focused on providing extended support for children.
"The PM is so grateful for the hard work of teachers, parents and schools to keep educating children throughout this difficult period."
