Covid-19: Educational Settings

Lord Lexden Excerpts

Thursday 7th January 2021 Lords Chamber

[Lord Lexden (Con)]

I declare my interest as a former general secretary of the Independent Schools Council and the current president of the Independent Schools Association. Is it not essential that the Government give the highest priority to the vaccination of all those who work with such dedication in our country’s schools? Will they consult closely with the Independent Schools Council in settling the detailed arrangements for this summer’s exams and assessments, recognising the close partnership that the council has with maintained sector colleagues?

[Baroness Berridge (Con)]

I am grateful to the noble Lord for mentioning vaccination, because I forgot to outline the position. We are following independent experts from the JCVI in distributing the vaccine first to those who are most clinically at risk of hospitalisation and death. The single biggest factor, as I am sure noble Lords are aware, is age. I understand that the Prime Minister might be talking about the progress of the vaccination at this very moment. In relation to reopening schools, the testing being rolled out and consideration of the vaccine are very much on the department’s mind. I am due to meet the Independent Schools Council later this month. From previous discussions, I know that it is closely linked to Ofqual and I am sure it will be involved in responding to the consultation on exams. We recognise the concerns and views being expressed by Members on the priority that should be given to vaccinating school staff.