We have just received this email from the Education Authority regarding P7 leavers celebrations. We are disappointed but we promise to bring the children back when it is safe to do so.
Dear colleagues,
In response to a number of enquiries surrounding P7 leavers celebrations we have been advised by our legal department to clarify the EA’s position. We understand that many parents and schools may wish to mark the end of term for the outgoing P7 pupils. This is understandable however:
Under current public health regulations, pupils should not be on school premises, unless a school is providing supervising learning centre for children of Key Worker and Vulnerable children and the pupils attending fall into these categories.
In respect of schools having celebrations for their P7 leavers, the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, currently permit the meeting up of friends or family outdoors, up to a maximum of six people, who must maintain at least 2 metres distance and maintain hand and respiratory hygiene practices. Schools should not be arranging P7 leaver celebrations which would breach these regulations. EA’s legal advice is that such gatherings of pupils and staff at this time would constitute a breach of legislation and public health guidance.
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