Dozens of schools across England have been forced to reintroduce remote learning for some year groups as COVID-19 outbreaks continue to disrupt education, according to newly released government data.
The Department for Education figures show that multiple educational institutions have implemented partial closures, sending hundreds—and in some cases thousands—of students back to learning from home despite the official end of pandemic restrictions.
Ongoing Educational Disruption
The data reveals a worrying pattern of continued COVID-related absences and classroom closures, suggesting the pandemic's impact on education remains significant. Schools in various regions have reported substantial infection rates among both students and staff, making normal operation impossible.
One secondary school in the North West confirmed that "multiple year groups" had been moved to remote learning due to "significant staffing pressures" caused by COVID-19 illness. The school emphasised that this was a last resort measure taken to ensure health and safety.
Department for Education Response
When questioned about the ongoing disruptions, a Department for Education spokesperson stated: "We have set out guidance for schools to help them manage COVID-19 and reduce disruption to learning."
The department maintains that current measures focus on "living with COVID" while minimising educational impact, but many school leaders report feeling abandoned as they navigate these challenges with diminishing support resources.
Parent and Teacher Concerns
The return to remote learning has raised concerns among parents and educators about the cumulative effect of disrupted education on children's development and mental wellbeing.
"We're seeing the same patterns that caused so much damage during the lockdown periods," said one headteacher who wished to remain anonymous. "The difference now is there's less support and everyone's expected to just carry on as normal."
Education unions have called for clearer guidance and additional resources to help schools manage COVID outbreaks without repeatedly resorting to classroom closures.
