Covid-19 has had - and continues to have - a significant impact on all our lives. With nursery schools given permission to reopen, you might wonder what changes will be in place for your child.

The impact of Covid-19 on nursery schools so far

While nursery schools in the UK have been able to welcome back pupils since June, there have been several restrictions in place – namely restricted group sizes, staggering returns, and reduced opening hours. With the autumn term now approaching, nurseries are able to invite all children to attend on a full-time basis (although this is encouraged, it is not mandatory). This follows the prevalence of Covid-19 decreasing, alongside the scientific realization that children are less susceptible to the virus than adults.

This has been an undoubtedly unsettling time for children and parents alike so, in preparation for children returning to their nursery schools, it is useful to consider the changes that are likely to be in place.

What can we expect from nursery schools?

According to government guidelines, reopened nursery schools must:

• Ensure that anyone displaying Covid-19 symptoms (or anyone who has been in contact with someone with Covid-19 symptoms) does not enter the building. Should symptoms emerge, a child (and their household) will need to be tested and self-isolate until their results arrive?
• Ensure people’s hands are cleaned more frequently and thoroughly, particularly when changing rooms and before/after eating.
• Encourage the ‘catch it, kill it, bin it’ approach to monitor good hygiene.
• Increase cleaning procedures using suitable cleaning products to sanitize surfaces.

Face coverings will not be mandatory for children under the age of 11.

These guidelines are in place to ensure that nursery schools look after their children and employees safe. While there are no strict rules in place, the government encourages nursery schools to implement these guidelines as best they can within their environment.

What might your child see when returning to nursery school?

• Perspex screens: You’ll probably already recognize the large see-through panels that have been installed in most shops and restaurants. It is most likely that these screens will be installed in nurseries in areas likely to have increased people traffic, such as reception areas.
• Signs and stickers: It is important that children are reminded of certain changes (such as social distancing measures and handwashing) so there will probably be a lot of information displayed on walls and doors.
• Hand washing areas: Your child can expect their nursery school to have more soap and hand sanitizer around, and new handwashing stations to use before entering and leaving the building.
• Temperature screening cameras: Different cameras and devices are being introduced to identify raised temperatures (not specific Covid-19 situations) in people through using simple face detection.
• One-way systems and socially distanced areas: Most establishments have introduced one-way systems to avoid crowding and bottlenecks. Nursery schools might also see tables set further apart to encourage social distancing between households.
• Increased use of outdoor space: Keeping in mind the government guidelines of group sizes in public places, it is possible that children will spend more time outside, such as in parks or play areas, to best adhere to social distancing and hygiene measures.
• Reduced staff numbers: It is possible that there may be staff shortages at nursery schools because of sickness or self-isolating. However, it is the responsibility of the nursery to ensure that things remain as consistent as possible for children.

What happens if there is a second wave of Covid-19?

The Children’s Commissioner has stated that, should there be a second wave of Covid-19, schools and nurseries should be the last to close with any closure being a last resort. If nursery schools do end up closing in the future, they must remain open for vulnerable children and children of keyworkers. However, all moves will be taken to prevent closure to avoid further upset to children.

Has your child been affected by the closure of nursery schools? How are they feeling about returning? Let us know by leaving a comment below.