Commenting on the DfE's latest attendance figures, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, said:

“The government is quite correct to put a high priority on preserving young peoples’ education. We want schools to be open. But the impact of Covid on pupils and schools is clear to see.

"The drop we have seen in attendance in secondary schools this week in particular is a real cause for concern. We remain very concerned about the spread of the virus, particularly amongst older pupils and in secondary schools. There are also worrying signs that older pupils could be playing a role in spreading the virus amongst family members, and this must be watched very closely.”

Press and Media contacts:

Steven George
NAHT Head of Press and Media
01444 472886
07970 907730

Rose Tremlett 
Senior Press Officer 
07545 354363

Email : press.office@naht.org.uk