Remote learning can be an effective tool for pupils unable to attend school due to long term sickness or medical conditions that prevent children from attending school. In exceptional cases, it can also support the reintegration of those pupils whose attendance needs to increase. In the case of school closure, remote education ensures the continuity of learning is not disturbed.

Where remote education is used it will be relevant to the school context and it should take into account the following: follow the principles below.

• Consideration of age, stage of development, and independent study skills.

• Any SEND or other additional needs the pupils might have.

• The pupils’ home environment, which includes having a suitable place and opportunity to study.

• Screen time, making reasonable allowances for adequate breaks for pupils and staff during digital remote education.

• Any significant demands on parents’ or carers’ help or support. Younger children, especially pupils in primary schools and some children with SEND, might require high levels of adult involvement to support their engagement with remote education, which can make it a particular challenge for these groups. And, follow the principles below.

• For those pupils who are well enough to access a full-time education from home, the remote education provided should be equivalent in length to the core teaching pupils would receive in school and will include recorded or live direct teaching time, and time for pupils to complete tasks and assignments independently. In this case, the amount of remote education provided should be, as a minimum:

o Key Stage 1: 3 hours a day on average across the cohort, with less for younger children

o Key Stage 2: 4 hours a day

For those children who are not well enough to access a full curriculum at home, schools should work in co-production with parents and the child to ensure an appropriate offer is in place. Where possible, the teaching of basic skills in reading, writing and maths should take priority. This offer should be reviewed regularly.