Highland Council reacts to First Minister's education announcement

Today’s announcement from the First Minister is very much what we have been anticipating and preparing for in our return to Highland education settings. It is a great reassurance that we can now continue with our work to achieve a full return of pupils and staff, including those who were previously shielding, in August.

Chair of Education Cllr John Finlayson welcomed the news. He said: “As always, the safety and wellbeing of our pupils, their families and our staff remain our priority. Officers are working to ensure Highland schools meet the Government and our parents expectations on safety measures such as ventilation, good hygiene practices and improved cleaning regimes.

We will continue to be guided by Scottish Government advice, and have contingency plans in place if we should need them. Officers will be reviewing our communications following this announcement, and information will be issued over the coming days to parents, carers and school staff.  I am sure all stakeholders, will be pleased and relieved to hear that as normal as possible a return to school, is now confirmed.”