EDUCATION chiefs have moved to answer some of the most pressing questions from parents in Helensburgh and Lomond, and across Argyll and Bute, ahead of their children's return to school next month.
The Scottish Government announced, just a few days before the end of the summer term, that pupils would return to class across Scotland, full-time and with no social distancing required, during the week beginning Monday, August 11.
Officials at Argyll and Bute Council have now published answers to some of the most frequently asked questions around the issue – with the promise of more to come next week.
The Q&A comes after parents and carers were sent a survey in early June to find out the concerns they had about pupils returning to school after the summer break.
Here are the first questions – and the answers provided by officials...
When will pupils return to school?
Schools in Argyll and Bute are due to re-open to staff on August 11 for an in-service day, with pupils expected to return on August 12.
This is subject to official confirmation from the Scottish Government no later than July 30. The council will be in touch with parents as soon as the confirmation is given by government.
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I am worried about the effect that lockdown has had on my child’s mental health and I’m concerned about how they will be going back to school?
The council says: "We fully understand that this has been a difficult time for everyone, especially children and young people.
"We have a dedicated team of educational psychologists on hand to talk to anyone who feels that their child could benefit from some emotional support at this time.
"If you would like some help or advice from one of the team, call us on 01546 605524.
"We have also put together additional resources to help you to have conversations about coronavirus with your child, and to direct you to sources of support and information, as well as information on accessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) – you can find this information in the Our Children, Their Mental Health section of the council website."
I’m concerned my child will have ‘fallen behind’ in their learning
On return to school, all children and young people will have their current learning achievements reviewed to enable them to move on and have the correct teaching requirements made available.
READ MORE: Argyll and Bute's pledge to Helensburgh parents over 'back to school' plans
What arrangements have been made in schools to make sure that children and young people are safe?
Council officials say: "We have produced a ‘Covid-19 Working Safely in Schools’ guide which will be shared with all schools by the end of July and will be available for parents to view on the council website soon."
What protective measures will be in place to ensure the safety of children and young people and staff, particularly around cleaning?
The authority says: "We will be implementing a strict cleaning regime in all our schools that complies with Scottish Government guidance (Covid-19: cleaning of non-healthcare settings guidance) to reduce the risk of transmission.
"We will also be making the most of outdoor space for learning, and reducing the use of shared items, such as stationery and books. Where resources are shared, strict guidance will be in place for cleaning these items (or quarantining them) between user groups.
"All staff and pupils will wash their hands frequently throughout the day, including on arrival, and before and after eating. Sanitising gel; surface and skin disinfectant wipes; approved cleaning agent for classrooms; and sensitive antibacterial wash cream will also be readily available."
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What will happen if circumstances change and pupils can’t return to school full time?
Education chiefs say: "If this happens, we will follow any advice issued to us by the Scottish Government and will keep parents informed of plans.
"In Argyll and Bute, our education staff had previously put a huge amount of effort into preparing for a blended learning approach in our schools, so we are ready to use this if required."
When will I receive confirmed details about my child going back to school?
The Scottish Government is due to make an announcement on July 30 to confirm arrangements for pupils returning to school. As soon as this has happened, council officials will be in touch with parents and carers directly.
* The council says more questions from parents, and answers from education officials, will be published next week.
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