SECONDARY schools across England will be asked to deliver face-to-face summer schools to help pupils catch up on lost learning.

The Government has pledged an extra £400m in funding, along with £300m in January, to help with its education recovery plan.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Our package of measures will deliver vital support to the children and young people who need it most, making sure everyone has the same opportunity to fulfil their potential no matter their background.”

However, not everyone has taken these proposed government plans lightly.

We asked our readers ‘would you send your kids into school over the summer holidays if asked?’.

This is what you had to say:

Louisa Moore thinks the education catch up plan was a good idea.

She wrote:  “I can’t see what all the fuss is about.

“Everyone moans about their kids getting behind- now this has been offered they’re all  against it.”

Victoria Turnbull also reasoned that the summer school proposal could be a good thing.

Victoria said:  “Yes I agree they have ‘not had any time off ‘, but realistically they have missed a huge chunk of education.

“Personally I think it’s a good idea if set out correctly and I’d be thinking of my child’s future rather than one summer .

“If this pandemic has taught us anything it should be that life throws things at you when you least expect it but you find a way to cope with these things.”

Rachel is also for the idea, adding that her son would enjoy summer school too.

She said: “Just asked my 14 year old son and he said yes- he missed half of year 9 and now some of year 10 and is having exams at Easter next year.

“He’s very worried about how he will pass them. However I wouldn’t send them all week but can’t see why the odd day wouldn’t hurt”

However, not everyone agreed with the catchup plan.

Francesca Mcminn said: “No, it’s not fair on the kids who have already lost massive chunks of their childhood due to this, or the teachers who have worked throughout and put themselves and their families at risk.They both deserve a break!”

Donna Malcolm said “one extra week or a few days” would be “fine”- but wants to remind people that children have been leaning online all year.

 

She added: ”I also think we need to move away from saying ‘catch up’ as who are they catching up with?

“It’s not a race and kids will have learnt other useful skills in lockdown.

“Learning happens every day and everywhere not just in a classroom.”

Ms Dowker added: “No kids and school staff aren't robots they all need a break.”

Pip Blackburn agreed, writing: “No, the teachers and support staff need a rest.

“Many have worked really hard in really challenging times to keep kids in education.”

Would you send your kids to summer school? Have your say in the comments.