Read on Twitter
A thread from my evidence to #EducationCommittee this morning:
It is biologically impossible for children to learn when they are in a state of acute stress or anxiety - & that’s where too many of our children are right now.
We need a plan to reconnect children with friends & teachers & a wellbeing curriculum using sport, music, drama to promote regulation.Summer programmes should be provided for all children- & they should also include health screening & referral.
Schools need to provide a "covid safe" environment incl. ventilated classrooms & teacher vaccinations (see @IndependentSage guidance).
Teacher wellbeing & safety should be prioritised so that they can re-connect with the pupils.
Each child will have different educational "catchup" needs.
Following assessment, the next steps should be negotiated between pupils, parents & teachers. 
We must approach "catchup" compassionately without blame or stigma.
PS I drew upon research, data & guidance frm @EmergingMindsUK @nichildcom @NIBPS @IndependentSage @PrincesTrustNI @ncb_ni_tweets & others. Follow them & @dr_treisman @suzannezeedyk @TheJoannaFortun @Parentengage @ParentingNI for more on compassionate, trauma-informed approaches.
