[_0o6v]

Having worked with engineers and software managers in the UK Government, it doesn't surprise me that this was such a fuckup.

The solution would have been not to completely close schools in the first place - there was no evidence that children were particularly susceptible to COVID or at risk then, and there's lots of evidence now that they aren't. Exams could well have taken place as normal - exam halls are, by definition, socially distanced.

[Tarq0n]

The children might not be at risk themselves but their parents/grandparents are, and kids do spread the virus.

[pbhjpbhj]

Children spread viruses very effectively. Schools being open means a faster rise in infections, not just amongst school populations. Which means more deaths.

[makomk]

Not closing schools was the government's preferred option for exactly the reason you point out. Unfortunately, the teachers' unions had different views on the matter and it's rather difficult to keep schools open without teachers, especially when they can easily just carry out a mass sick-out. Exam halls are probably a bit of a transmission risk though since they involve a bunch of people who wouldn't normally mix sitting in the same room sharing the same air for a few hours.

[nicky0]

Also once the schools have been closed it becomes a lot harder to properly prepare the pupils for the exams.

[smcl]

You’re right and this is often ignored - the few weeks or so prior to exams where the curriculum is largely over can significantly change your grades

[jackpeterfletch]

Yeah, Germany just ran their exams. Too important.