School staff 'broken' by England's late Covid test plan
18/12/2020
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education
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Last minute plans for mass testing in England's secondary schools to be run by teachers anger staff.
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Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah
18/12/2020 10:52:10
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bbc
I'd feel broken knowing that Gavin Williamson is in charge..
Some teachers may even be dreaming of the days they were beholden to Michael Gove's idiotic whims.
‘In charge’ may be pushing it a bit. He couldn’t organise a party in a brewery.
Only technically in charge, in practice...
Another day, another act of gross incompetence by the UK Government that will be blamed on schools by the teacher haters here and by Bojo's gang of clowns.
I think even most here can see this is out of order and incompetent! That's because people can put themselves in the teachers' position, and think about how upset they would be if they suddenly got what looks like an incredible amount of complex, logistical work to carry out within two week over Christmas, with poor advice and support from the government.
Absolutely. Those not in education will as usual have their misinformed opinions about us, and accuse school staff of laziness for wanting to have a break over Christmas. Another reactive, shambolic, badly thought out announcement by a government which is fumbling around and not listening to reason. Why also do school leaders have to find this out through the media?!
No another day and another GOOD plan to keep the virus under control now that we have enough testing capacity to screen returning pupils at the start of term. No need for panic now by anyone, detailed guidance will be issued in a few days so enjoy christmas and sort out the details later. The test is pretty quick and simple to do.
All about divide and conquer, Trump done a great job in splitting US, Johnson and his cronies doing same here, blame Labour, unions, teachers, parents, young people, EU, anything that moves to try to get people blaming each other, in some cases it's working. We as citizens of the UK should be standing together against our incompetent and divisive government for the good of the country.
What absolute tosh go live somewhere else people like you take the biscuit pouring out spite and bile and thinking its clever time for such as you to simply shut up.
Not at all-we have become a moaning country who don't and are not willing to adapt to circumstances . This is a pandemic!
I am staggered by the incompetence of government, it seems like no planning involved just off the cuff needs at the last minute, that really should of been laid out and planned for several weeks ago, poor decision making and than any plans for action to be done, is then passed on to the teachers on the final day of school.
why are we paying government ministers who have no idea who pass the buck.
why are we paying government ministers who have no idea who pass the buck.
Indeed. Williamson has proved over and over that he is an incompetent oik.
100% correct mate. We also have ourselves to blame. We knew they are all incompetent and yet we voted them in, and now we are suffering for it. Let this be a lesson for everyone in the future.
Rubbish. The usual emotive, provocative language of the left
Nick Gibb's main 'qualification' for being schools minister is that he went to school as a child. At least he has a few years' experience in government doing it, unlike the education secretary Gavin Williamson who literally has no qualification or experience for the job prior to taking the role last year. Since 2010, the Tories have shown utter contempt for school staff.
Take it your a teacher
Unbelievable. As usual school have to carry the can for govt incompetence and dithering, this time over Xmas lockdown. The govt are useless buffoons.
What lockdown? I thought the Government had sanctioned a 5 day party.
How about using the teaching assistants that seem to abound in schools nowadays.
How about using the teaching assistants that seem to abound in schools nowadays.
THE BUFFOONS ARE THE PEOPLE!! THEY KNOW ABOUT THIS PANDEMIC,, THEY WILL NOT BELIEVE ANYONE,, TILL IT HITS HOME,, NOW THEY BLEETED ABOUT CHRISTMAS,, AND GOT A REPRIEVE!! JUST WAIT TILL AFTER THE DRUNKEN PARTIES ETC,, THEN THE PEOPLE WILL HAVE NOBODY TO BLAME,, EXCEPT THEMSELVES,, THOUSANDS WILL DIE,, THEN????
There are lots of fit people without work claiming benefits, why not recruit some of those to assist?
Because they are too busy playing on their brand new ps5 on their brand new 65" tv screen, whilst the women are on tik tok on their brand new iphone11 or getting their hair and nails done. All whilst their 13 children are causing havoc in their designer Lacoste tracksuits
Because, they have to be safeguard checked as they are under 16. This normally takes two months. Typical response from someone who does not work with children. Likewise, the expectation is that school staff do this as they are safeguard checked...really? Because schools, like all work places, have spare staff not doing anything.
Because since Jeremy Kyle was axed they're really struggling to get out of bed before 2pm!
Then there's the food bank at 4pm (have to get dressed for that), before the off licence at 6pm to get fags and booze.
8pm pick up a twenty bag.
10pm order a Domino's.
Repeat 7 times a week.
If you're unfortunate enough to have a job interview, a tattoo on the face will keep the workshy, shy of work. Removed
Then there's the food bank at 4pm (have to get dressed for that), before the off licence at 6pm to get fags and booze.
8pm pick up a twenty bag.
10pm order a Domino's.
Repeat 7 times a week.
If you're unfortunate enough to have a job interview, a tattoo on the face will keep the workshy, shy of work. Removed
Just when will you stop punching down? What's wrong with you? The government are lurching from idiot take to another idiot take like a drunken sailor and you're asking why someone that is on benefits during a pandemic is not shoehorned into a job you need training for.
I despair sometimes...
I despair sometimes...
They would need to be CRB checked this takes time.
It would cost money. They won’t even be doing criminal record checks. Want a criminal near your child.
Probably because they don't have the necessary skills or ability in the specific areas that this would require?
If this had been announced a month ago, there would have been time to recruit, perform safety CRB checks, and train these people.
But it wasn't. It wasn't even suggested that something like this in general would happen. It's a sudden, inept, late announcement.
If this had been announced a month ago, there would have been time to recruit, perform safety CRB checks, and train these people.
But it wasn't. It wasn't even suggested that something like this in general would happen. It's a sudden, inept, late announcement.
What an utterly pathetic headline. Did the government “drop” covid 19 on the population?? BBC you are ridiculous.
The goverment are in charge of the country, they need to plan ahead, so those who have to implement their directives have time to plan the implementation.
I guess Nicola Mason will have to spend much of her Christmas holidays working. Welcome to the world that your teaching staff have been living in for years.
I started on Jan 1st 1978 and did my last supply teaching in December 2019, having gone up to HT level and back down again after re-employment. And if you think management don't work through holidays you are extremely naive, you are another who looks upward with a chip on your shoulder but with little ambition.
Go home. Take the phone off the hook. Don't check your work emails until you return after the holidays. The last thing we need is burnt out heads and teachers.
Don't take the phone of the hook as that will raise a piercing alarm through the earpiece. Instead, either unplug the phones or temporarily block all calls from certain numbers.
If primary school pupils don't spread viruses...why do they give them the flu vaccine?
What? Children don't get the annual flu jab - it's the over 65's and the medically vulnerable who are offered that.
They do spread viruses.. no one said they didn't. They don't seem to spread covid in the same way though
None, other than he should have chucked himself into the fire.
... and what is your exalted job?
These decisions don't get made and implemented on the same day; they would have had ample time to give the teachers some notice.
Just yet ANOTHER act of shoddy mismanagement endemic in this government.
Just yet ANOTHER act of shoddy mismanagement endemic in this government.
I don't understand why Gavin hasn't already been fired.
He is a truly incompetent lightweight.
He is a truly incompetent lightweight.
Using the excuse that it's a fast moving situation is rubbish. The data shows an upsurge starting weeks ago. As others have commented, sensible heads wanted to close early but were told no. A few days later they're being told to open late. Horse and stable door policy.
No, teachers should have had the wit to suss out the likely situation.
Absolute rubbish . .I would have loved to see Starmer and his illiterate cronies try to run a country during a pandemic . That really would make you weep
I beg to differ. It seems to me, sadly, that decisions DO get made and implemented on the same day.
Mass testing was announced last week. The staggered return has been approved to provide the time required to facilitate the testing.
And don't forget - schools wanted this long ago. So if they wanted it back in September, why didn't they plan for it back then? What if they'd given it to them in September, they'd have looked foolish to then say they had no plan for what they asked for.
And don't forget - schools wanted this long ago. So if they wanted it back in September, why didn't they plan for it back then? What if they'd given it to them in September, they'd have looked foolish to then say they had no plan for what they asked for.
sums it up
"He said the reality of Covid was like the Battle of Britain, but the government response is more like Dad's Army."
No Panic, No Panic
"He said the reality of Covid was like the Battle of Britain, but the government response is more like Dad's Army."
No Panic, No Panic
"Don't panic" (Corporal Jones).
I'd say that rather does a disservice to the Home Guard who had to quickly adapt, and make do. Mind you they had some experienced wise old heads in their ranks - something this Government seems to lack.
Even Lance Corporal Jones would have done a better job with his bayonet, because Gavin Williamson would not like it up him!
The government passes responsibility for failing to produce the test and trace system Bojo promised to over worked, exhausted teachers. An utter shambles.
No has has not. T&Tis working by the way and any failures are down to those not wanting to be traced.
Underworked, exhausted teachers. And for your next joke ...... ??
Head teachers complaining about using their Christmas break to plan for the new term, a'int that a shame, NHS workers have given their all through out the year, teachers have had at least 5 months off on FULL PAY, done nothing, earn your stupid high salary for a change. and just shut up whining and don't forget you only work 195 days a year.
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You clearly have no idea what is actually involved in being a teacher.
You clearly don't understand what is involved in being a teacher.
You have no idea.........my school taught live lessons throughout the last lockdown for those kids that wanted to not game for 5 months!
You obviously don't know any teachers, if you did you'd know that they have been under immense pressure and what you are saying is utter garbage.
Politics of envy - teachers have not had 5 months off. But if you believe it - how long have MPs had off??
Maybe hgtraveller has a point. If teachers were that good, how does it explain so many fatuous, witless, dim-witted, oblivious, illiterate, coarse, uncouth, boorish imbeciles like hgtraveller on these forums?
You clearly know nothing about teaching or learning environments. Get a proper job or shut up !
I'm not a teacher but it seems that you have forgotten that whilst schools were partially closed for a couple of months, they stayed open for children of essential workers such as NHS staff. So where you you get the 5 months off from - Daily Mail perhaps or did you see it on your phone?
There is nothing new in any teacher using the Christmas, or any other holiday to plan for the new term. What really pisses them off though is when this pathetic excuse for a government ask them to do the seemingly impossible, which incidentally, because of their professionalism they will manage to do, and ill informed members of the public like you think they have it easy.
Keeping schools open at all costs should be the government's No. 1 priority.
Fast forward 20 years and the 80+year olds are dead anyway while the damage to the long term prosperity of our society caused by the disruption to the education of the next generation of doctors, teachers, politicians, scientists and entrepreneurs is immeasurable.
Fast forward 20 years and the 80+year olds are dead anyway while the damage to the long term prosperity of our society caused by the disruption to the education of the next generation of doctors, teachers, politicians, scientists and entrepreneurs is immeasurable.
At all costs? And you seem to be saying let the virus rip and kill off the vulnerable and elderly. The problem with that is that hospitals would collapse and those with non covid conditions won't get treated. Or would you ban anyone old going to hospital?
Socially distancing schools should be the government’s No 1 priority. Mandatory mask wearing should be the Governments No1 priority along with PPE, extra cleaning and ventilation. Only then should schools be open.
# NotAtAllCosts.
# NotAtAllCosts.
So you've got no friends or relatives over 80, then?
If things had gone according to plan, I'd have met some friends over the summer. In their late 80s. From all over the3 world. In New Zealand.
Yes the kids education is important, but do you really want people to die for it?
If things had gone according to plan, I'd have met some friends over the summer. In their late 80s. From all over the3 world. In New Zealand.
Yes the kids education is important, but do you really want people to die for it?
Throughout this year the government have treated schools, teachers and headteachers with contempt. This is just the latest.
Appointing Gavin Williamson was a sign of the contempt to follow. Probably the most useless Minister in living memory and that is saying something.
With minimal thought of safety for staff or students, would our politicians be willing to risk covid by spending all day, every day, cooped up with 33 kids in a room? Anyone of the students could be highly infectious.
Come on be fair, they've treated all of us that way. They are nothing if not consistent.
Yes like giving them the biggest pay rise, and keeping them on full pay for 6 months when schools weren't open... They are bone idle
My wife is a teacher ... she has been given no PPE and is now being asked to Perform medical testing ? ... not to mention she has been furloughed over Xmas break ... so it would be illegal for her to even prepare for the testing ??
There are lots of fit people without work claiming benefits, why not recruit some of those to assist?
Teaching is still the Best paid part time job, 39 weeks of the year and short hour days, now being asked to carry out an additional duty for the well being of the majority.
Oh I forgot about the marking and planning fairies that do all the work behind the scenes!
I agree my wife and I were both in teaching for over 50 years between us.
Teaching is not a part time job. If it was such an easy job then why is there such a large shortage of teachers?
Sheer ignorance...
As the kids return to school, they are tested. What's the big deal with this ?
Read the article to find out.
Who does it, when are they trained, are they competent, who organises Covid-safe procedures to run testing clinics, where are they located within school, who cleans them, how often, when do pupils arrive, on which days, for testing, how long do they stay in school, what about pupils who rely on school buses from remote areas, who teaches the key worker children who continue as normal?
You clearly have no idea whatsoever to come out with that statement.
Clearly has no clue about planning
There are lots of fit people without work claiming benefits, why not recruit some of those to assist?
Because, they have to be safeguard checked as they are under 16. This normally takes two months. Typical response from someone who does not work with children. Likewise, the expectation is that school staff do this as they are safeguard checked...really? Because schools, like all work places, have spare staff not doing anything.
Shows a total lack of understanding and respect for schools and colleges. Totally incompetent leadership from the government. Impossible to properly set up in time so guaranteed to fail.
Schools have become essential during the pandemic and the same as other essential services this may mean school leaders and teachers giving up the usual two week Christmas and New Year holiday
The same as millions of others working in the NHS, electricity, gas and water, food retail, etc
The same as millions of others working in the NHS, electricity, gas and water, food retail, etc
And when it fails they'll blame the teachers, the heads, the parents anyone but themselves once again. This government disgusts me.
Like any other business or organisation it's about adapting and being flexible. So if you have to miss some holiday days then tough! I have frequently worked during holidays and have not been compensated it just goes with the territory. Many teachers I know enjoyed a rather extended break this Spring and Summer on full pay!!! Many workers did not have that luxury! Quit moaning and get on with it!
What a silly statement. A 'no can do' attitude from the teachers is the reason it will fail. Poor precious snowflakes !
What a shambles. Teachers exposed to Covid through the autumn. Not allowed to self isolate for a few days before Christmas to protect family. Now have this dropped on them for political spin. This government has a serious competence problem.
Daughter teaches in a primary - today a 4 year old has tested positive - how many in the bubble and wider community now infected? Very angry.
What a shambles, other people not finishing work before Christmas Eve because they arent in education and allowed to finish the week before, not being allowed to protect our families. People who havent had any time off/holidays since March covering for other people and the furloughed, but hey we arent teachers so screw us.
At least teachers in England finish up this week providing some time to isolate before Christmas. In Scotland they will be working right up until 23rd December on the instructions of the Scottish government.
Christmas day is NEXT FRIDAY not tomorrow.
So there are 6 days for all treachers to self quarantine before Christmas day
Heck they could even spend the time arranging the testing setup for next year.
So there are 6 days for all treachers to self quarantine before Christmas day
Heck they could even spend the time arranging the testing setup for next year.
Whilst I appreciate the sentiments other employees have to work up to and including Christmas Eve so they are unable to self isolate before Christmas. Teachers need to remember they have far more leave than most.
This government is totally incompetent & Education Secretary the worst in my living memory - so out of touch - very sad days and feel sorry for the kids - although my primary kids are happy to be at school they constantly say - wish we could go back to how it was - miss the interactions in and out of class plus the trips etc....sadly a virus that has affected everyone.....the hope lies in vaccines
The government are complete shambles, completely inept, most ministers are seriously challenged just doing their jobs! They were late to lock down in March, opened up too quick in June/July - campaigned to get people eating out in August and getting people back to work, with inadequate public transport, then ignored advice and locked down late in Nov. The education issue is all their own making.
and you have a serious understanding problem it is quite simple really unless of course you can't read or write sensible stuff.
Head teachers complaining about using their Christmas break to plan for the new term, a'int that a shame, NHS workers have given their all through out the year, teachers have had at least 5 months off on FULL PAY, done nothing, earn your stupid high salary for a change. and just shut up whining and don't forget you only work 195 days a year.
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Wouldn’t it have made so much more sense for the Government to close schools two weeks early, use that time to set this up and ensure kids had had plenty of time not mixing with hundreds of other people prior to packing them off to visit elderly residents?
Even the final week would have been enough. It's such an obvious idea that many people have pointed out, yet the government were going to sue one council who decided to do just that!
The govt need to stop being short-termist. Keeping schools open at all costs should be the government's No1 priority.
Fast forward 20 years and the 80+year olds are dead anyway while the damage to the long term prosperity of our society caused by the disruption to the education of the next generation of doctors, teachers, politicians, scientists and entrepreneurs is immeasurable.
Fast forward 20 years and the 80+year olds are dead anyway while the damage to the long term prosperity of our society caused by the disruption to the education of the next generation of doctors, teachers, politicians, scientists and entrepreneurs is immeasurable.
My school did. Closed last Friday. So did many other schools. Goverment? What government?
You had me until you said 'much more sense for the government'
That's taking it a bit far.
That's taking it a bit far.
It would... but then that would suggest competent leadership and governance by the Tories.
Bless - a salary that is probably £120k plus and she’s got to do a it of extra work over the Christmas holidays. Just get on with it.
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Your mistake is assuming the government have sense. Until you have ministers who have worked in the fields they make decisions in; they will continue to lack the basic knowledge within those fields. Eg an education minister who has actually worked as a teacher and or head master. (State school) A finance minister who has worked in finance a Health minister in hospitals or a GP.
Anyone with half a brain cell should know its not advisable to visit elderly or vulnerable relatives during Christmas.. Unless they want to go to their funeral.
Really? Testing them when they return is the logical thing to do, as that's the period of most risk. It's hardly a shock is it. Testing them as they leave at the end of term, just shows they were healthy at the point of leaving - largely useless. The control phase will be when the return.
It's so blindingly obvious
It's so blindingly obvious
Debate and comment is a wonderful thing but we elect Governments to make these tricky decisions. We might all have differing opinions but we need to recognise that in the end we must back our Government. That should not lesson are support of our School leaders. If they need support implementing what is required, they should be able to count on the support of the parents and community.
Yup, instead they want you to mix, infect your older and more vulnerable relatives and then lock down for 6 weeks after to allow us to clean up the mess (and just ignore brexit going on at the same time)....
Are you volunteering to look after them all while their parents work?
The gov have made "keeping education" open such a political statement that they can't deviate or back down form that irrespective of the chaos they are causing. they have done the same on Brexit with "Fishing". that is what happens when you have leaders who desperately want to shout "ego" from the despatch box rather than sensible reality. Our gov are full ego driven lightweights.
The only people “packing” their kids off to elderly residents are the parents.
And yet again be disparaged by the moaning parents who can't organise babysitting or a booze up in a brewery? The government is damned if they do and damned if they don't. As for visiting their elderly relatives, surely the parents must at least take responsibility for that decision? When did we become a society so unable to take personal responsibility even for our children?
Yeah, yeah, yeah. All about the elderly again isn't it?
What about children's education?
What about teachers who have nad a real struggle these last few months?
All I hear with the Boomers is me, me, me
Can't wait to get jabbed and back out there to the theatres and restaurants no doubt
What about children's education?
What about teachers who have nad a real struggle these last few months?
All I hear with the Boomers is me, me, me
Can't wait to get jabbed and back out there to the theatres and restaurants no doubt
No...kids have lost too much education as it is.
Indeed, this government are proving time and time again just how inept and out of touch they really are! It is blindingly staggering how poorly equiped they are to see and understand situations before the event. This is yet another u-turn because they suddenly realised how bad publicity was growing behind the threat of legal action against schools that actually had suggested a sensible plan!
Has there ever been a more incompetent Government than Johnsons Crew.
They're dealing with a situation way outside any one's experience - I'm very sure Corbyn (or indeed Starmer - the great abstainer) would have been a lot worse
Every labour government ever.....
NO there hasn't. Johnson makes May and Cameron seem competent
Sturgeon runs a pretty close second.
Definitely not. We have an inept populist PM and a useless cabinet selected for Brexit opinion and not ability. The worst possible people in charge of the country at the worst possible time.
Yes. All of them Tory.
Absolutely YES, incompetency is the only way you can become a minister, think failing Grayling or Corbyn and Co.
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The only PM who was anywhere near Johnson for being totally incompetent was Ted Heath, who caused the miners to go on strike, which resulted in blackouts throughout the UK. Heath refused to meet the miner's demands in every way possible, which resulted in him getting a vote of no confidence.
It is quite obvious that Johnson will be facing the same situation, hopefully at the beginning of 2021.
It is quite obvious that Johnson will be facing the same situation, hopefully at the beginning of 2021.
Yes, Labour under Corbyn. No change likely if the get in now.
Surely Cameron has to be the most incompetent?? Creating this Brexit mess simply to pander to a small group of Leave backbenchers? The chain of events that he started is what allowed Johnson to become PM!
Seriously??? T Blair. G Brown. Never had anything like a pandemic to deal with. One used dodgy info to take us to war. The other disastrously cosied up to greedy bankers. To be fair, Cam's weakness with EU wasn't helpful & T May was useless. But with so many unknowns & the need for speed, Covid is a godsend for brick throwers & whingers. Be grateful neither Corbyn nor Mr Hindsight are in charge
You need to clarify if this is a UK government. There have been other arrogant terrible regimes who's incompetent decisions resulted in tens of thousands of their own citizens dying.
Opposition parties would.have been no better! Politicians are a waste of space!
The Labour Welsh Government by a country mile!! Not to say that Johnson's crew are in anyway competent.
I am afraid so. Blair, Brown and May for starters. Does not excuse this lot though.
Need also to remember that Civil Service has a huge role and culpability in this shambles.
Need also to remember that Civil Service has a huge role and culpability in this shambles.
Thankfully we never had to find out! But this situation has floored most govts around the world, so there's your answer!
Another day, another act of gross incompetence by the UK Government that will be blamed on schools by the teacher haters here and by Bojo's gang of clowns.
Shambles - The Buffoon and his Dads Army government strike again - whilst appreciate dealing with the pandemic not easy they continue to score incredible own goals - usually at some cost to someone else - Oh but let's not forget they will achieve Brexit - THAT should have been stopped!!
At the beginning of the week, local authorities in London were threatened with legal action by the Government for implementing remote learning during the last week of term. Now, two weeks later, remote learning is required everywhere in the first week of the new term. WTAF?
The problem is that remote learning varies so much from school to school. Some are excellent, some very, very poor. Moreover, pupils ability to work at home is very variable.
Remote working is great....as long as the students are given the equipment and resources. Plenty of people cant afford it and the Government doesnt take this into account. Cheese-Mogg can lambast UNICEF all he likes...poverty IS a reality in this country
Ah - but a political decision was taken to keep schools open - no matter what. Anything else might be seen as weakness and lack of resolve, which are MUCH greater crimes in the modern political lexicon.
Back in the summer it was reported by the BBC that home learning was detrimental to poorer pupils and not so much for wealthier ones, yet now we seem to be calling for it to be extended?
Seems to be all about being opposite to the gov't regardless of the policy.
Seems to be all about being opposite to the gov't regardless of the policy.
The threat from Williamson was purely because they were Labour Councils. Basildon and other Conservative Councils already had this in place but of course were immune from such threats , I wonder why?????
This is remote learning for up to one week and for a very good reason.
It is interesting that the Bristol Diocese closed its Academy schools two days early with comment or threats from the Govt. Is that political bias or just a higher authority taking over.
Govt. by after thought on this one
Can we send this gov back to school?
Pref not Eton.
They don't seem to have learned much there.
Pref not Eton.
They don't seem to have learned much there.
A shambles - this government is absolutely not fit for purpose.
More words fail me. How anyone can defend or support them is beyond me.
More words fail me. How anyone can defend or support them is beyond me.
Easy. It's a global pandemic, and their crystal ball is not fully reliable.
For those that down vote, please explain why you think they are fit for purpose.
They are doing a difficu l t job, under difficult circumstances. Boris has a job nobodyelse would want and I bet you couldn't do any better or wouldn't do.It differently.
Just like Labour under Russia's puppet, Corbyn. Unlikely to get better under Starmer. History will repeat itself.
The problem is not one member of the cabinet is capable of doing anything else. Eton doesn't seem to teach anything useful.
Money talks!
Lots of reason frankly, but where on earth is our sorry opposition party! They are supposed to hold the government to account. Look at Wales, leftist government who could not manage their way out of a wet paper bag
Yep, if only Jeremy Corbyn was PM right now .....
Complete, uttter nonsense, there is no evidence that children contract or pass on Covid, so what on earth is the point of testing them ? When are the Brirish people going to take to streets and tell the Government to wake up to tyhe reality that Covid is here to stay, live with it idiots.
Public Health England say Shops & Schools are the biggest reason for transmission...both have been open and in full swing, is it any wonder the lockdown had little effect
Actually there’s plenty of evidence that they do. They are just often asymptomatic. Ironic your use of the word idiot at the end there.
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Evidence in nearly every secondary school, dominoes does not do it justice, spreading like the plague chum. Ps obviously you have not lost someone or know someone with long covid. I do and one caught it in school?????
Our local High School has has had 2 students test positive for Covid-19 in the last week.
J Bennett. So so so so so wrong. You've been told that "fact" and swallowed it wholesale.
Explain how two weeks ago this rural village had 1 person positive for Covid and this week has 30... all of school age?
Try checking some real news sites, there are plenty out there...
You might need to take your tinfoil hat off for best results, though!
You might need to take your tinfoil hat off for best results, though!
Head teachers complaining about using their Christmas break to plan for the new term, a'int that a shame, NHS workers have given their all through out the year, teachers have had at least 5 months off on FULL PAY, done nothing, earn your stupid high salary for a change. and just shut up whining and don't forget you only work 195 days a year.
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Why mass testing in schools? We were told schools were perfectly safe.
Because this shambles of a government make things up as the go!
Obviously they think by doing this they can compensate for allowing Xmas gatherings. And the best of it is, other people have to do the work!
Come on Colin! You're assuming a logical and consistent narrative!
2 things. It was clearly explained that opening up schools and universities was a risk, but worth taking for the wealthfare of the children, their education and the freeing up of parents from childcare. I understood that this risk may have to be counterbalanced by more stringent restrictions of other activities (such as pubs, sports etc). Secondly there is no such thing as "perfectly safe".
And at the same time as guidance was reissued to schools declaring their safety, Sage scientists were warning of 1-2% cases in schools. In a big secondary, that’s nearly a class full.
I'd assume in school they are being 'overseen' more & suspect its their out of school time that is the issue. From what I've observed on my train journey, most school children (over 11) are not wearing masks, social distancing or sanitising. Local parks, shops, playgrounds/skate parks etc are full of kids doing none of the above. Who knows?
"Why mass testing in schools? We were told schools were perfectly safe."
The only people saying that where those who were spreading fake news, try reading around a bit to get a better picture of what is really going on.
The only people saying that where those who were spreading fake news, try reading around a bit to get a better picture of what is really going on.
To make them even safer.
Everyone knows what is happening but the Education Secretary. Both sons teach - one in Oxfordshire, one in Dubai. Both in the class full time but Emirati system is so much more robust in how they have dealt with things. Our Education secretary appears clueless by comparison.
Actually weren't schools open during the second lockdown and didn't it all kick off once pubs, shops and restuarants opened up again?
Most are, all the ones isolating at home are because of tests, hardly any because of symptoms. And most teachers too are young and unaffected. Which is why schools have only been closed for 6 months from late March - September rather than 9 months and counting. Schooling MUST be protected at all costs.
Head teachers complaining about using their Christmas break to plan for the new term, a'int that a shame, NHS workers have given their all through out the year, teachers have had at least 5 months off on FULL PAY, done nothing, earn your stupid high salary for a change. and just shut up whining and don't forget you only work 195 days a year.
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Shambles - The Buffoon and his Dads Army government strike again - whilst appreciate dealing with the pandemic not easy they continue to score incredible own goals - usually at some cost to someone else - Oh but let's not forget they will achieve Brexit - THAT should have been stopped!!
No consultation/last minute notice/details. Expectation of school staff to again cover for government poor planning.This is not about working during holidays, this is trying to manage sudden changes at the drop of a hat and when schools are closed. Joke. No doubt there will be those seeking to teacher bash here. Schools will do this and as always manage it well. But they shouldn't have to
The teacher bashers are out. No surprise that the country cannot recruit enough teachers.
Shut up you leftie fool, if it was up to people like you nothing would get done. I guarantee you voted for Corbyn and Remain 100% ??
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Little logic also. Quote, "it's a fast moving situation". Sure is, so fast that clear today doesn't mean clear tomorrow. So for continuity, testing should ocurre daily, ergo, only one year group is able to return! Back to remote teaching!
Many of us are doing things we shouldnt have to. Like NHS Staff and like 1000's of volunteers supporting the most vulnerable. I dont hear them complaining.
Planning?? Are you getting information we are not? How do you plan when you put lockdowns in place and the virus continues to grow? The only way forward was possibly a complete lockdown, not allowed out for any reason at all, all food to be delivered for a period of some 4 to 6 weeks. I can just see those families with teenagers coping.
Week 39 since 1st lockdown:
They have only had 39 weeks to think about children in schools
utter shambles
They have only had 39 weeks to think about children in schools
utter shambles
They've only had 234 weeks to think about Brexit...
That is the problem with this excuse for a government. The cabinet was chosen by Cummings for their ability to say yes to any order he gave. Now he has moved on., bozo cannot do detail and the puppets in cabinet CANNOT think!
Are you for real or just a bot?
They have not had a n authorised rapid test for anywhere near that length of time. This is a fast moving situation. Surely its better to test them as this could put teachers in a safer position if the asymptomatic children are removed from their classrooms as soon as possible rather than infecting teacher, teaching assistants and other school workers.
And so what did the head teachers and school leaders do in those same 39 weeks? Or do you believe that foresight and planning is only the preserve of governments?
If unions and schools hadn't been asking for testing since September then they would have reason to moan. But they have been asking for it - and now they have it they're moaning about lack of time to prepare.
They've had 3 months.
If unions and schools hadn't been asking for testing since September then they would have reason to moan. But they have been asking for it - and now they have it they're moaning about lack of time to prepare.
They've had 3 months.
I assume you mean the teachers are a shambles. If not, why not ?
The children are fine, this is driven because every Muppet on here has been saying 'what about the children spreading it'.
The science is out, they don't, Prof Semple pointed it out yesterday.
The govt is reading too many incoherent tweets and trying to respond to them, because the public is too uneducated to get a grip!
You're all worried, they've given you an alternative!
The science is out, they don't, Prof Semple pointed it out yesterday.
The govt is reading too many incoherent tweets and trying to respond to them, because the public is too uneducated to get a grip!
You're all worried, they've given you an alternative!
I'll agree Hitler's Government was more incompetent, so is Trump's but I think the statement was meant to refer to UK Government's and certainly in the last 200 years all displayed far more competence than Johnson's, even Macmillan's in his dementia years was better.
Cameron and Mays were pretty close then of course there was Neville Chamberlain's - all Tory of course.
Who? I lived through Thatcher and even they had an idea what they were doing even if I didn't agree with them. This lot aren't fit to govern anything.
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Such as?? Which gov has killed 0000s thru it’s incompetence in a peacetime civil crisis?? The blind support for Johnson is primarily the same subspecies who refuse to criticise anything he does on Brexshit.
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Who do you have in mind? I have seen many governments come and go and this lot are easily the least competent shower that has been elected in my lifetime.
Thought that was what non contact time was used for.
Why mass testing in schools? We were told schools were perfectly safe.
The right wing press banged on and on about how safe schools were
Oh yes we were. Sturgeon in particular was most emphatic. Country after country are closing schools because they know they are not safe. They put health before politics.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/actions-for-schools-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak/guidance-for-full-opening-schools
“no evidence that children transmit the disease more than adults, no evidence that staff in education settings are at any greater risk of fatal outcomes than many other occupations ... the balance of risk is now overwhelmingly in favour of children returning to school.”
“no evidence that children transmit the disease more than adults, no evidence that staff in education settings are at any greater risk of fatal outcomes than many other occupations ... the balance of risk is now overwhelmingly in favour of children returning to school.”
Yes they were,here in fairyland Tory Lincolnshire we had 183 schools affected yet the local MP still said no problems,these people are utter unless
As near as. The perception being pushed was that in school transmission was at worst negligable.
Yes we were, What is it with you Tories re-writing history. Johnson said it, Gove said it, then immediately contradicted himself. Here's a link for you, it's
from Sky News, a firm favourite among the tax dodging Tory supporting news outlets. https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-boris-johnson-insists-he-has-no-doubt-schools-can-fully-reopen-safely-12047130
from Sky News, a firm favourite among the tax dodging Tory supporting news outlets. https://news.sky.com/story/coronavirus-boris-johnson-insists-he-has-no-doubt-schools-can-fully-reopen-safely-12047130
Yes we were by most of the cabinet - the only tactic you tory sociopaths have is bare faced lies.
Yes we were [told that schools were safe]!!!
The government has persistently said that schools are safe. Even Boris said a couple of months back, "as our chief medical officer and all our medical advisers have said, SCHOOLS ARE SAFE" [BJ's emphasis]
The government has persistently said that schools are safe. Even Boris said a couple of months back, "as our chief medical officer and all our medical advisers have said, SCHOOLS ARE SAFE" [BJ's emphasis]
Ahem, yes we were, including Covid secure workplaces, Eat out to Help Out etc etc
Yes we were, Over and over Johnson prattled on at SKS in HoC at PMQs. Keep up please.
Yes we were, poor Martin, either very simple or a paid Tory Bot
Oh yes we were! Back in the first wave we were told that schools were safe because kids don’t transmit it.
uhm sorry to burst your bubble but YES they did confirm schools were perfectly safe, let me remind you with some quotes by our friend Gavin Williamson: "The latest research which is expected to be published later this year - one of the largest studies on the coronavirus in schools in the world - makes it clear there is little evidence that the virus is transmitted at school," he said.
Why mass testing in schools? We were told schools were perfectly safe.
I know the teachers' unions are prone to a whinge but they are well within their rights this time. It's been clear that this kind of testing would be needed at schools as soon as the decision to keep them open was taken back in September - why did the government have to wait until the day before the Xmas holidays to drop this on them?
Errr, maybe that was when they got the latest infection figures. Perhaps you think they should wait until the day AFTER the holidays start, or maybe on Xmas day?
If it has been clear and oh so obvious, and if the unions have been asking for it for months, why don't the unions and schools have a plan already?
Why did they wait until it was approved to begin their plans?
Why demand a government show foresight when you're not going to provide any yourself?
Why did they wait until it was approved to begin their plans?
Why demand a government show foresight when you're not going to provide any yourself?
There are lots of fit people without work claiming benefits, why not recruit some of those to assist?
Because since Jeremy Kyle was axed they're really struggling to get out of bed before 2pm!
Then there's the food bank at 4pm (have to get dressed for that), before the off licence at 6pm to get fags and booze.
8pm pick up a twenty bag.
10pm order a Domino's.
Repeat 7 times a week.
If you're unfortunate enough to have a job interview, a tattoo on the face will keep the workshy, shy of work. Removed
Then there's the food bank at 4pm (have to get dressed for that), before the off licence at 6pm to get fags and booze.
8pm pick up a twenty bag.
10pm order a Domino's.
Repeat 7 times a week.
If you're unfortunate enough to have a job interview, a tattoo on the face will keep the workshy, shy of work. Removed
That will have happened in so many schools this week as well. My boy's school had the entire three form year six in isolation this week. That's around 80 families who will have restricted options at Christmas. Now, this is probably for the best as people should keep safe and not visit other people this Christmas because things are pretty dire, but it will have messed a lot of plans.
So what do you suggest, lock her away for a year and see her education disrupted her future affected?
... what you should be asking is "how was that child infected" ... clearly not in school, so what is being done about her test and trace?
Children are known not to give out much of dose. So anyone that catches it off them will get much milder symptoms, in the rare case a child even catches it. This was the science behind keeping them open. This is why the UK is actually doing better than many countries that closed schools right now.
No evidence that young children pass on the virus. It's 16+ and above that there is a problem.
Probably none. But this kind of thing is a good reason to screen pupils at the start of the new term now that there is a reason to do it.
"Make it up on the hoof" policy. No wonder we are utterly stuffed in this country. What a complete shambles this government really is. Not one of them would have earned a place in a Thatcher cabinet, not a single one.
Agree - whilst I disliked much of Thatcher's approach if she did something it would have been sorted no dithering like Captain Buffoon (PM) - he and his company of clowns are a SHAMBLES
Maggie Thatcher was an outstanding PM, like Winston Churchill.
I think they would - they are certainly corrupt enough.
Why mass testing in schools? We were told schools were perfectly safe.
There are lots of fit people without work claiming benefits, why not recruit some of those to assist?
What a shambles, other people not finishing work before Christmas Eve because they arent in education and allowed to finish the week before, not being allowed to protect our families. People who havent had any time off/holidays since March covering for other people and the furloughed, but hey we arent teachers so screw us.
Shame you don't work in a unionized workplace Damien so your rights to all those things are protected.
Don't blame one of the few areas still protected for failings where _you_ work!
Don't blame one of the few areas still protected for failings where _you_ work!
And we have another jealous moaner, complaining about the furloughed - would you rather they'd all been made redundant, instead?
Do you work in a small room, in close proximity to 30 others, who have no idea about hygiene or social distancing, without any PPE or protection? There is the difference.
Teachers haven't had a break since March either, but how would you know that since you can't see past the huge chip on your shoulder. Wise up to the divide-and-conquer tactics. We are all on the same side - the government are playing us all.
Teachers weren't furloughed, worked through the pandemic, extra work converting lessons to on line. Now paying for furlough in the private sector with a wage freeze. Wind your neck in, you haven't got a clue.
Ps. just for general information: TEACHERS DON'T GET PAID FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. We will now be working through the holiday UNPAID to sort out this shambles
Ps. just for general information: TEACHERS DON'T GET PAID FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. We will now be working through the holiday UNPAID to sort out this shambles
Complete, uttter nonsense, there is no evidence that children contract or pass on Covid, so what on earth is the point of testing them ? When are the Brirish people going to take to streets and tell the Government to wake up to tyhe reality that Covid is here to stay, live with it idiots.
Just get on with it instead of moaning. We're all in the same boat. Sick of hearing individuals and groups complaining. So what if we all have to work 16 hours a day to get through a world pandemic. As long as we actually get through. All these people complaining about the Government are ridiculous. It's selfish individual people who are causing the problems not the government.
I bet Red of Oscar hasn't set foot in a school in 45 years, has no idea of logistics of organising the public in a pandemic or has left his keyboard in 9 months
and I assume you are 100% compliant in everything you do and do not get frustrated.
Let people vent at this inept government
Let people vent at this inept government
"............. not the government" You should be on a comedy show - they should lead (HM Govt) - yes people should (no MUST) follow BUT dithering from PM and Govt is the issue
Thank you for finding time outside of your 16 hour working day for this well thought out comment!
But you are allowed to moan about people moaning, of course?
If a manager in a company acted like the goverment they would be sacked for incompetance.
Absolutely ridiculous. After the NHS staff, teachers are the next in line for praise for the unbelievable job they have all done. Completely reinventing teaching methods for distance learning, working 7 days a week.
Headteachers spent the whole summer transforming their schools to be Covid compliant so pupils can return and now they will have to spend next week setting up testing.
Headteachers spent the whole summer transforming their schools to be Covid compliant so pupils can return and now they will have to spend next week setting up testing.
Who really would want to be a teacher or even a nurse these days. More straightjackets please!
So what have you got against the Emergency Services, apart from the NHS, who are head and shoulders above our whingeing teachers.
Right, and at least NHS staff get some credit - schools get neither credit nor help, they're expected to sort everything out for themselves at the drop of a hat whatever minsters' whims may be.
And not forgetting the non-teaching staff who have been the oil on the wheels throughout keeping things running and supporting school leaders, teachers, parents and the students. Round of applause for the education sector. We're not just a child minding service as some see us.
All without any pay increase for the extra work or loss of holidays and NO PPE at all ... like First World War in the trenches ... just sending soldiers over the top into mustard gas with NO Gas masks ... when will the Eton set learn??
Not sure what school your kids go to but my kids school was awful. No online learning whatsoever so missed out on months of school and since going back in September he has had so many temp teachers it’s unreal.
And the past two weeks hasn’t learnt anything as the school is ‘winding down for Christmas’ despite missing months of schooling earlier this year.
And the past two weeks hasn’t learnt anything as the school is ‘winding down for Christmas’ despite missing months of schooling earlier this year.
THEY ARE PAYED TO CARRY OUT THE REQUIREMENTS OF SCHOOLING ,,, THE PEOPLE,S IN MANY CASES UNRULY MOB, CALLED KIDS, MOST SPOILED??
Couldn’t disagree more. My kids had zero education or contact from their school for 4 solid months in the spring. And that’s supposed to ‘OK’.
Consequently whilst I admire some teachers, I have no respect for their self-serving unions. I notice they never mention the educational aspect of their job.
Consequently whilst I admire some teachers, I have no respect for their self-serving unions. I notice they never mention the educational aspect of their job.
Head teachers complaining about using their Christmas break to plan for the new term, a'int that a shame, NHS workers have given their all through out the year, teachers have had at least 5 months off on FULL PAY, done nothing, earn your stupid high salary for a change. and just shut up whining and don't forget you only work 195 days a year.
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Complete, uttter nonsense, there is no evidence that children contract or pass on Covid, so what on earth is the point of testing them ? When are the Brirish people going to take to streets and tell the Government to wake up to tyhe reality that Covid is here to stay, live with it idiots.
Pathetic response, Martin. You do gigs at the local comedy club?
People are understandably very angry about this and to say this is anything but incompetence is disingenuous.
People are understandably very angry about this and to say this is anything but incompetence is disingenuous.
One day threatening Greenwich with legal action for closing early, next day telling them to open late? No crystal ball required just competency.
Eat out to help out, oh and stay at home. Go back to work, oh work from home. Could go on... but falls on deaf ears.
Eat out to help out, oh and stay at home. Go back to work, oh work from home. Could go on... but falls on deaf ears.
Would that be the same crystal ball Bojo used to predict the wondrous benefits we’d receive from leaving the EU?
I gave the Government credit at the start as they were dealing with the unknown.
However as the months have passed they seem to be constantly behind the game. They are repeatedly leaving decisions until they are too late, despite being warned beforehand.
However as the months have passed they seem to be constantly behind the game. They are repeatedly leaving decisions until they are too late, despite being warned beforehand.
You don't need a crystal ball to know that children, whilst largely asymptomatic, can still transmit a virus if they're infected themselves.
You don't need a crystal ball to know that teachers are neither medical professionals nor logisticians, and so should not be forced to implement something that needs both of those things to plan and implement safely.
Both of those things are common sense.
You don't need a crystal ball to know that teachers are neither medical professionals nor logisticians, and so should not be forced to implement something that needs both of those things to plan and implement safely.
Both of those things are common sense.
They don't have any balls.
Global pandemic also for China, Newzealand, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan.....
Stop defending the indefensible.
We understand we did not have information in the early stages. But now? All you need is a half intelligent person as a leader and real desire to work for the people and not for self. Enough is Enough!
Stop defending the indefensible.
We understand we did not have information in the early stages. But now? All you need is a half intelligent person as a leader and real desire to work for the people and not for self. Enough is Enough!
How much to you make being a Tory Bot?
Greenwich Council did not need a crystal ball. They used common sense... and were threatened with legal action.
Sadly, the government's common sense is not so much unreliable as non-existent
Sadly, the government's common sense is not so much unreliable as non-existent
A crystal ball is not required. Common sense would be a start. How about this? No travel over Christmas. If hairdressers can stay open, why not pubs? This Govt. are next to useless. Barnard Castle OK until fiancee is pissed off. Oven ready deal? Easiest trade deal ever? EU need us more than we need them. OK, 27 countries v 1. Mmm. How about BJ is mendacious. Along with his rich mates.
It's not that they can fail, that's unavoidable in the world we live in right now.
It's the lies, the arrogant laziness, the u-turns, the refusal to take responsibility, the refusals to admit to errors and the gross incompetence that hurts.
It's the lies, the arrogant laziness, the u-turns, the refusal to take responsibility, the refusals to admit to errors and the gross incompetence that hurts.
You don’t need a crystal ball to see that transmission of the virus in schools is a problem. It’s been obvious since September and they land this mass testing plan on the teachers the day they are due to break up for Christmas.
I have to say I find your loyalty to the Tories bemusing.
Do you think they have managed this well - really! We have suffered one of the highest death rates in the World and one of the most damaged economies. It's hard to imagine how anyone could do a worse job.
We pay them to prepare for all situations not to gaze into crystal balls
Oh didn't realise, I thought they were relying on scientific evidence. But no I get it - bring in Mystic Meg...
Yes it's a pandemic and as a conservative voter I initially had sympathy in a no win situation. 10 months on, I won't vote for them next election (can't vote labour though). Their management of this crisis goes from bad to worse. They said Boris was a good front man but not for detail. Then he needs good detail people around him. Matt Hancock.........clown
Give teachers another responsibility. As if being parents wasnt enough, they should now be testers. And no pay rise? And a shorter year?
While the government, who have been a complete shambles this pandemic bailed out by brilliant scientists/researchers, get a pay rise?
Good one
While the government, who have been a complete shambles this pandemic bailed out by brilliant scientists/researchers, get a pay rise?
Good one
Er, they're not getting a pay rise.
Then you are basing perceived competence with ideology. ANY government in my lifetime would have been more competence than this miserable crew.
That explanation is a cop out to justify utter incompetence. Every knew who works in schools that there was going to be a problem apart from the govt. Why send info on the last day? Where is the planning and understanding. don't forget they were trying to sue schools for closing early. This govt are vile, corrupt and incompetent.
Unlike you, I prefer to live in the real world not a fantasy one of pointless conjecture. It may have passed you by but the fact is that Johnson in in charge and by any measure is a miserable failure.
How are you sure? We only have this Govt's record of what they've done. Anything else is pure conjecture, as Labour haven't any power to do anything for us to judge
All you have to do is look at the state that highly incompetent, totally insane Corbyn remnant of an imbecile Drakeford has got Wales into. Corbyn would have been just as bad, if not worse if he was the PM.
Starmer is also not doing himself and the Labour Part any favours by the way he is carrying on, and will eventually bring his party into the same disrepute as Corbyn did.
Starmer is also not doing himself and the Labour Part any favours by the way he is carrying on, and will eventually bring his party into the same disrepute as Corbyn did.
Why was it a problem for you that Starmer abstained in the last vote? Did you listen to his reasoning (which he did over the course of 30 mins, in huge detail) ? I thought it made perfect sense.
Quoting two head teachers out of 22,400 is hardly representative but as long as it pushes the BBC ongoing narrative I suppose it will have to do.
If they are "broken" then maybe they are in the wrong job.
If they are "broken" then maybe they are in the wrong job.
One in three teachers already quit within the first 5 years...be careful what you wish for
What do you expect them to do, have a quote from all 22,400?
If they did, you'd complain it was too much to read, wouldn't you...
If they did, you'd complain it was too much to read, wouldn't you...
Why don’t you volunteer to man a testing station near you if you are that brilliant?
Bit impractical interviewing all 22,400 of them perhaps. Maybe the 2 they did offered fairly typical responses.. Just saying. Of course I could be wrong and the majority think this whole thing has been carefully planned and the necessary logistics all put in place, in which case Keith, I apologise...
"Make it up on the hoof" policy. No wonder we are utterly stuffed in this country. What a complete shambles this government really is. Not one of them would have earned a place in a Thatcher cabinet, not a single one.
At least Thatcher had principles and stuck to them. I did not agree with much that she did, but I respected her straight talking.
Thatcher was a incompetent city puppet who left the country in an economic mess with a run down NHS starved of funds and an underfunded education system stumbling along as well as doing more damage to this country's manufacturing infrastructure than Adolf Hitler managed.
At least Sergeant Wilson would query each decision by saying: "Do you think that's wise sir?"
I thought teachers had to have at least some english?
Say "Hi" to Big Billygoat Gruff for me!
Say "Hi" to Big Billygoat Gruff for me!
Why mass testing in schools? We were told schools were perfectly safe.
I taught for many years in deprived schools, and it is a tough job at the best of times. The extra strains of Covid have made it harder, and I know that head teachers have an onerous job.
Nevertheless, it is their duty to find a way forward. They are well paid, carefully chosen, and are need to show some positivity and leadership. To claim you are 'broken' is a demoralising exaggeration.
Nevertheless, it is their duty to find a way forward. They are well paid, carefully chosen, and are need to show some positivity and leadership. To claim you are 'broken' is a demoralising exaggeration.
Head teachers complaining about using their Christmas break to plan for the new term, a'int that a shame, NHS workers have given their all through out the year, teachers have had at least 5 months off on FULL PAY, done nothing, earn your stupid high salary for a change. and just shut up whining and don't forget you only work 195 days a year.
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Sorry but my wife was a teacher for over 20 years, just retired, so i think i do have some idea.
At least the government is consistent, threatening to sue one day and then imposing last-minute procedures without consultation. The common thread is the govt not listening then having to chase the game. That said, we should hardly be surprised with a quintessentially clueless and incompetent Education Secretary in post - Gavin Williamson, NFFP.
This style of government is winging it. Flying by the seat of one's pants and hoping for the best, just hope they never have to run a big business or run a military campaign. Either bankrupcy or military defeat and to think they think they know how to run a country?
Who does it, when are they trained, are they competent, who organises Covid-safe procedures to run testing clinics, where are they located within school, who cleans them, how often, when do pupils arrive, on which days, for testing, how long do they stay in school, what about pupils who rely on school buses from remote areas, who teaches the key worker children who continue as normal?
theres a lot on this conversation that need to learn manners and go back to school.
Complete, uttter nonsense, there is no evidence that children contract or pass on Covid, so what on earth is the point of testing them ? When are the Brirish people going to take to streets and tell the Government to wake up to tyhe reality that Covid is here to stay, live with it idiots.
According to the DfE handbook on this it needs 9 staff to run the school testing centre to process 100 tests per day. Where and when are schools supposed to recruit these staff ready for training to start on the 4th January? For safeguarding they would need DBS (police) checks to ensure they were safe to work around kids. Is this just another example of how Test & Trace has failed in this country?
They also need a well ventilated, sterile room with non-porous flooring.
Have more confidence!
It'll be an oven-ready plan for a world-beating test and trace system!!
Minister Gibb has a fine track record of hitting targets for teacher recruitment...getting a few people to do testing will be easy!
It's almost as if you're saying it's another "back of a fag packet load of BS! from incompetence incorporated!!"
It'll be an oven-ready plan for a world-beating test and trace system!!
Minister Gibb has a fine track record of hitting targets for teacher recruitment...getting a few people to do testing will be easy!
It's almost as if you're saying it's another "back of a fag packet load of BS! from incompetence incorporated!!"
If they are supervised no requirement for DBS but its still more pressure putting on teachers who despite what people think work 60+ hours a week when you take planning, makring into account that just goes on and on....
Not to mention that there is no money for the extra staff!!
That's why it's a staggered return, so those not teaching can deliver testing - no problem!
Start with all the TA's who will not have anyone to assist until they turn up ?
Just get on with it instead of moaning. We're all in the same boat. Sick of hearing individuals and groups complaining. So what if we all have to work 16 hours a day to get through a world pandemic. As long as we actually get through. All these people complaining about the Government are ridiculous. It's selfish individual people who are causing the problems not the government.
Don't worry - schools will pick up the pieces again. Not their role to run test centres whilst teaching classes in school and remotely at the same time. But then again, they are already the main track and trace system fro the govt, so why not. Maybe ministers will teach the classes in January whilst school staff become health care practitioners anyway. problem solved.
Apart from teaching children, teachers have to take on parental care, be social workers. detect religious or political fanaticism, act as psychologists, supply meals, at times. supply pens and paper, report on unfit parents.
And in their spare time.....
Put up with the sh***heads on here.
And in their spare time.....
Put up with the sh***heads on here.
Keeping schools open at all costs should be the government's No. 1 priority.
Fast forward 20 years and the 80+year olds are dead anyway while the damage to the long term prosperity of our society caused by the disruption to the education of the next generation of doctors, teachers, politicians, scientists and entrepreneurs is immeasurable.
Fast forward 20 years and the 80+year olds are dead anyway while the damage to the long term prosperity of our society caused by the disruption to the education of the next generation of doctors, teachers, politicians, scientists and entrepreneurs is immeasurable.
Complete, uttter nonsense, there is no evidence that children contract or pass on Covid, so what on earth is the point of testing them ? When are the Brirish people going to take to streets and tell the Government to wake up to tyhe reality that Covid is here to stay, live with it idiots.
Just get on with it instead of moaning. We're all in the same boat. Sick of hearing individuals and groups complaining. So what if we all have to work 16 hours a day to get through a world pandemic. As long as we actually get through. All these people complaining about the Government are ridiculous. It's selfish individual people who are causing the problems not the government.
Covid has shown how poor this government is at planning. You might as well let these teachers run the country and I bet they will do a better job!
Because they are too busy playing on their brand new ps5 on their brand new 65" tv screen, whilst the women are on tik tok on their brand new iphone11 or getting their hair and nails done. All whilst their 13 children are causing havoc in their designer Lacoste tracksuits
Aww, looks like it will interrupt their Netflix schedule, and they might need to actually do some work, for a change.
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Just get on with it instead of moaning. We're all in the same boat. Sick of hearing individuals and groups complaining. So what if we all have to work 16 hours a day to get through a world pandemic. As long as we actually get through. All these people complaining about the Government are ridiculous. It's selfish individual people who are causing the problems not the government.
Not only that, but that teachers were traitors if they dared question anything the Government had arranged. I will never forget that on May 15th 2020, the Daily Mail handed me a metaphorical white feather for my years of service - and I will never let them forget it either.
This should have been planned from the day that Boris said people could spread the virus to their relatives and friends for five days over Christmas. Being announced on the last day of term, for time that many teachers would have booked off as holiday, is incredibly poor planning that shows the government failed to think things through, although that's no surprise sadly.
Should have been planning the day he and Sturgeon demanded schools go back without social distancing. This disaster was entirely predictable.
Yet every day we see news of more schools closing due to Covid, or whole years or several classes at a time - every day! I read the other day that only 56% of school children have been at school non-stop since Sept! Places at highest risk of spreading virus? Supermarkets, private homes (parties etc), hospitals, working environments such as factories, schools and colleges. Better to home teach.
Unfortunately for you FACTS state otherwise but I'm sure reading you Tory newspaper telling you this you think this is true. Do a quick 20 mins research and you will find the complete opposite is true.
theres a lot on this conversation that need to learn manners and go back to school.
Thank God this lot were not around in the war, they seem to expect everything to be all planned and pre announced. I fear for the pupils being taught (?) by them.
Tex, you plainly have no idea. What is your expertise because it is certainly not schooling? To use your war analogy - Luftwaffe massing planes ready for Battle of Britain, taking off, half way across channel and Churchill sends out a message as bombs are about to fall - do we have any Hurricanes, Spitfires, pilots, armaments, fuel, airstrips, support crews, spare parts? What, we don't? Oh...
Aww, looks like it will interrupt their Netflix schedule, and they might need to actually do some work, for a change.
Removed
Perhaps because Phil From Heck is an imbecile?