European countries were asked to attempt to respect “the right of children to be involved in all decisions that affect them,” in a recently published report prior to the beginning of the school year in Europe.
The report comes after the “High-level meeting on schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic” that took place in July, stating that “very few” governments tried to engage children in making decisions that impact their scholarly activity.
The report was made by the European Office of the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The report relies on the fact that school closures are detrimental to child health, well-being, and educational consequences.
From a child-centered point of view, the report suggests that school closures should be avoided for as long as possible.
Report from third high-level meeting on schooling in the time of COVID-19, jointly organized by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) https://t.co/co8v7brUfe
— Bruce Adamson (@Bruce_Adamson) August 30, 2021
The report also spoke of some ways to help keep children safe from COVID when they go to school.
Schools in New South Wales are set to reopen by October 25, after months of closure.
The government worked on a progressive reopening plan.
Kindergarten and First-year children go back to the classroom first, after other cohorts each week, a process that should end by November 8.
Victoria hasn’t provided as to whether students will return to their classrooms in the 4th term.
When you compare the NSW plan to recommended best practices across the globe, something seems a bit off.
Also, Victoria’s movements don’t appear to be on par with children’s desires regarding school activity.
