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During the inquiry examining the effects of the Covid pandemic on young individuals, Boris Johnson acknowledged that children paid a significant price in order to safeguard others. The former prime minister expressed remorse for government missteps while also commending teachers and schools for their remarkable efforts in navigating extraordinarily challenging circumstances. Contrary to previous claims that there were no plans to close schools in early 2020, Johnson asserted that he believed careful consideration was being given to such decisions at the time.
In a separate development, former education secretary Gavin Williamson testified before the inquiry last week, admitting that the government erred by adhering to a plan to keep schools operational in March 2020. Johnson conceded the criticism regarding inadequate planning, emphasizing the complexity posed by the rapid progression of the disease and the need to prevent a severe public health crisis. The inquiry also shed light on disagreements between Williamson and Johnson, particularly surrounding the decision to close schools again in 2021.
One of the most prominent challenges faced by both Johnson and Williamson during the pandemic was the debacle surrounding exam results in August 2020. The Department for Education faced backlash for utilizing an algorithm to determine grades, ultimately resulting in significant downgrades. Following public outcry, a reversal was implemented to award students the grades predicted by their teachers. Johnson’s leaked messages revealed his frustration with the situation, prompting contemplation of dismissing individuals within the DfE.
Reflecting on the broader context of the pandemic and its repercussions on education, Johnson admitted that the handling of exams and learning loss was indeed disastrous. Despite the challenges faced, he commended the efforts of the Department for Education in navigating the crisis. Looking ahead, Johnson suggested that in future pandemics, the closure of schools should be considered a measure of last resort, emphasizing the need to prioritize the education and well-being of children. This phase of the inquiry, focusing on the impact of the pandemic on young people, is scheduled to conclude later this week
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