The impact of Covid-19 on children’s language, socio-emotional and educational outcomes

There is no doubt that Covid-19 has caused significant disruption to children’s lives and there is understandable concern about their educational progress.  This has only been exacerbated by the recent outcry about the level of funding announced by the government to support their “catch-up” plans, which resulted in the resignation of Sir Kevan Collins.  In addition, the current narrative around “catch-up” does not take account of children’s social and emotional needs as we move forward, focusing primarily on educational outcomes.  Moreover, the Government “catch-up” plan is not clear about its long-term view.  We don’t know what the ongoing impact might be, and children will need a prolonged period of additional support to avoid falling through the net.