To ask the Minister of Education what guidance has been provided to schools about marking pupils present on days that only teaching and administrative staff are in the school building, but pupils have been told they may stay home due to the pandemic.

I strongly believe that face to face teaching is the best form of education and our schools are the best place to provide this in a controlled and safe environment. In light of this my Department has not provided any specific guidance in order to facilitate the marking of pupils as present in circumstances where they are not physically attending school.

DE Circular 2020/08 sets out guidance to schools on how attendance should be recorded. My officials are happy to provide advice to any school regarding this issue. The relevant team can be contacted either by email at: attendance@education-ni.gov.uk or by telephone on 02891 279328.