The Real Reasons Schools in the UK Aren’t Shutting Down Amidst Coronavirus: A Deeper Investigation

It’s a question that has puzzled many: Why aren’t schools in the UK closing down, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic? The answer lies in a complex web of economic, social, and educational factors. This article delves into these aspects, questioning the motives and policies that keep schools open.

Is Child Care a Priority Over Health?

The priority given to child care over health in the British education system is a critical issue. According to many observers, schools are perceived more as sources of cheap childcare rather than centers of education. This perspective is deeply rooted in the socio-economic structure of the UK, where working parents are expected to remain employed even during times of crisis.

For families where both parents work, the importance of having their children in school cannot be overstated. However, the reality is that the need for child care is often prioritized over public health concerns. The societal viewpoint is that children being in school is seen as essential for maintaining economic stability, which is intertwined with the perceived fiscal responsibility of schools serving as low-cost childcare providers.

Historical Context and Economic Motivations

The current structure of the UK’s education system is a product of history and economic changes. When the author was growing up, the fear of automation and unemployment led to a widespread belief in the importance of part-time or even full-time work for everyone. This mindset led to a restructuring of the education system. The focus shifted to free enterprise, with the belief that a mixed economy would lead to economic growth.

In the 1980s and 1990s, this led to a process of privatisation and globalisation in the UK. The education sector was no exception. Syllabi were revised to reflect the new economic ideology, and publishers began altering textbooks accordingly. This shift to a free-market economy had profound effects on the education system, shifting its primary role from community-based education to a form of corporatized child care.

Health Considerations and Efficacy of School Closures

Despite the widespread calls for school closures, there is no clear evidence that closing schools would significantly reduce the spread of the coronavirus. The few cases of children identified as being infected have not provided a comprehensive picture of the virus’ behavior in this age group. It is possible that children are not as readily infected, or that they don’t transmit the virus as effectively.

Public health experts, who serve as advisors to the UK government, do not believe that closing schools would be an effective strategy for controlling the spread of COVID-19. This conclusion is based on several factors, including the low number of children identified as cases, the potential for children to still transmit the virus despite not displaying severe symptoms, and the need for parents to stay home to care for their children.

Government Decisions and Media Pressure

However, it appears that the government’s decision to close schools is not based on the advice of public health experts alone. Amidst intense media pressure, the government has made a snap decision to close schools. This move has been criticized for being more influenced by political and media considerations than by public health data.

Experts argue that such decisions should be based on rigorous analysis of the virus’ behavior, the social and economic impacts of school closures, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of each strategy. The current situation highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers both public health and the socio-economic implications of school closures.

Conclusion: A Call for Balance and Understanding

The decision to keep schools open in the UK during the coronavirus pandemic reflects a complex interplay between economic pressures and public health concerns. While the current evidence suggests that closing schools might not be an effective strategy, the socio-economic factors in play mean that such decisions cannot be made without careful consideration of the broader implications.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential that policymakers, media, and the public work together to ensure that decisions are based on a thorough understanding of the virus, its behavior, and the social and economic impacts of different strategies. Only through a balanced and informed approach can the UK effectively navigate these challenging times.