Guidance on remote education updated by DfE

The Department for Education has updated non-statutory guidance on remote education, which was first published when schools were shut for most during the Covid pandemic.

The guidance says that attendance must be prioritised, but that remote education could be used to cover short term absences where children are still able to learn, such as pupils recovering from short-term infectious illnesses, pupils preparing for or recovering from some operations, or pupils recovering from injuries where attendance might inhibit recovery.

Pupils receiving remote education should still be marked as absent.

The guidance also says that in exceptional cases, remote learning could be used to include pupils whose attendance has been affected by a special educational need or disability (SEND) or a mental health issue. However, this should be done on a case-by-case basis and should be part of a plan to reintegrate back to school.

The guidance also says to be “mindful” of the individual needs and circumstances of pupils and their families such as if they have a suitable place and opportunity to study, or any “significant” demands this may place on parents or carers where “high levels of adult involvement” might be needed. Time limits on screen time should also be considered.

Schools should work to “overcome barriers” for pupils, including “auditing access” to devices and “supporting families to find appropriate internet connectivity solutions”.

Read the guidance here.