More kids were in primary school last week than at any point since the Covid pandemic began

MORE KIDS were in primary school this week than at any point since the Covid pandemic began, The Sun can reveal. Whitehall insiders said the reopening has been a big success, with nearly all children back at their desks. Attendance in primaries soared above 92 per cent – the previous high which was hit on […]

MORE KIDS were in primary school this week than at any point since the Covid pandemic began, The Sun can reveal.

Whitehall insiders said the reopening has been a big success, with nearly all children back at their desks.

Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates…

PA:Press Association

More were in primary school last week than at any point since the Covid pandemic began, The Sun can reveal[/caption]

Attendance in primaries soared above 92 per cent – the previous high which was hit on January 4 this year.

Hardline unions had tried to scupper the reopening with gloomy predictions of testing chaos and infection at the school gates.

But delighted teachers, parents and kids told of their joy at finally being allowed back in school.

It came as Education Secretary Gavin Williamson admitted the £1.7billion schools catch up package “only scratches the surface”.

 

His words, made to the teaching union ASCL’s annual conference, is a major hint that more cash will be found to help kids.

He said: “Our children have lost so much of their childhood and we have to make that up to them.” The Cabinet Minister ruled out scrapping GCSE exams for good, despite pressure from some teachers.

And he revealed that his “pillow talk” at home with his wife – who is a teaching assistant – revolves around the classroom.

He said: “My wife is a teaching assistant and it is always interesting because I obviously get quite a bit of lobbying. You know, our pillow talk is maybe a little bit different.

“She’s always sort of highlighting various issues where maybe the Department for Education hasn’t always got it perfect all the time and it’s always good to hear it from the frontline.”

Mr Williamson, who is battling to hold on to his job in the looming reshuffle, also revealed he has bought a lockdown puppy to help cope with the stress.

Getty Images - Getty

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has ruled out scrapping GCSE exams for good, despite pressure from some teachers[/caption]

He admitted “not every day has been brilliant” at the Department for Education.

And added: “The one thing about pets is that they always seem to be pleased to see you, especially dogs.

“So I think that sort of combination of family and dogs are probably the things that keep you sane.

GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL exclusive@the-sun.co.uk