Schools in Wales opt for teaching online a week to deal with rising energy costs

Schools in Wales are considering teaching online for a week to tackle the rising energy costs. The Powys Councillor, Beverley Baynaham, raised the issue of considering all possible options for savings in schools. The council is focusing on cutting costs and saving energy, and suggested shifting to online teaching once a week to achieve potential savings. Blended weeks of learning and a four-day week with the fifth day taught virtually at home are also being considered. A financial toolkit has been prepared to help headteachers and school governors tackle financial issues. The decision to implement these suggestions will rest upon the headteacher and their chair of governors.

The council has also suggested filling vacant positions for teachers with existing staff members and finding volunteers to work in schools. Councillor Pete Roberts stated that there cannot be a single solution for the schools, and they will decide which option is most viable for their school budget.