Covid-19: Return to school hinges on relaxation of social distancing

The risk of students’ regression and the damage caused by extended school closures will have to be considered, Education Minister Joe McHugh said yesterday.

The full return to school for thousands of children and young people hinges on whether or not it will be safe to relax, or remove, social distancing in classrooms, according to the official advice compiled by the Department of Education.

More than three months since schools first shut their doors, the advice has laid bare the stark consequences social distancing will have on Irish classrooms. School students will be able to attend school for just one day a week should the 2m rule remain in place when schools reopen their doors in the new school year.