The Minister of Education yesterday reassured parents that no schools will close in September.

Diallo Rabain emphasised that primary school registration would go ahead as normal later this month and in February.

He was speaking after the launch of the ministry’s public consultation on primary school restructuring.

The consultation document proposed that eight primary schools should be closed as Bermuda moved to a system of parish primary schools.

It is also proposed to abolish middle schools and replace them and secondary schools with signature schools.

It also proposed to close one middle school as a result of the changes.

But Mr Rabain insisted that no final decisions had been made on either the number or names of the schools to be closed and that all schools would open in September.

He said: “The consultation for the introduction of parish primary schools may have caused concerns among some parents and guardians who will be registering children for primary school.

“I want to remind everyone that the parish primary school proposals are subject to a consultation process that is taking place.”

He added: “Following the outcome of the consultation, further studies will have to be undertaken, funding will have to be mobilised, and logistics will have to be determined, with the input of stakeholders.“

Mr Rabain said: "The Government is undertaking education reform – however, there will be no closure of any schools for September 2021 and preschool, primary, middle and senior school registration is scheduled for later this month and in early February.

"To support the annual school registration, Bermuda public schools will hold virtual open houses to share information about educational programmes and offerings across all school levels.

“The purpose of the open houses is to allow parents and students to ask questions about our schools.”

“Questions can also be submitted in advance on a feedback form posted on the department's social media channels.“