Petition · past parliament · Department for Education
Enable online learning for children who live with those who are vulnerable
Closed
6,033 signatures
What the petition asks
Clinically vulnerable people living in households with children attending schools and colleges are exposed to unacceptable risks.
It is compulsory for all children to attend school in person; there are currently no alternatives.
It is compulsory for all children to attend school in person; there are currently no alternatives.
Schools and Colleges must enable online learning for those students who live with family members who are clinically vulnerable.
Since “the vulnerable know how to protect themselves” these families should, therefore, be given the authority to transfer their children to online learning without fear of fines or prosecution, using resources that are already available for those isolating. Currently the only alternative is to home educate off-roll, potentially jeopardising their children's futures.
The most vulnerable should not have to choose between their own lives and the education of their children.
Since “the vulnerable know how to protect themselves” these families should, therefore, be given the authority to transfer their children to online learning without fear of fines or prosecution, using resources that are already available for those isolating. Currently the only alternative is to home educate off-roll, potentially jeopardising their children's futures.
The most vulnerable should not have to choose between their own lives and the education of their children.
Timeline
| 5 Nov 2020 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 5 May 2021 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
6,033
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Education
Opened
5 Nov 2020
Closed
5 May 2021
Follow this petition
Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.
Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.