The timelines for schools to be opened and closed under the Government’s transformation plans has been deferred, the Minister of Education has announced.

Crystal Caesar said in a statement this evening that the infrastructure of schools undergoing upgrades as part of education reform plans would be completed before any announcements were made about schools opening.

Francis Patton Primary School and Purvis Primary School both encountered construction delays in 2023 when opening as the island’s first two parish primary schools.

Students either had to attend classes at different locations or attend their school while construction took place.

Ms Caesar, who shared some information with parents during visits to public schools on the opening day of term yesterday, said: “Education transformation is a generational undertaking. While we continue the work off our master plan, including a realistic infrastructure strategy, we must also provide stability and maintain focus on improving the teaching and learning taking place in our schools today.

“Following a review of the transformation programme, the ministry determined the best way forward would be to defer certain aspects of transformation to stabilise, strengthen and deliver education that truly serves every child.”

She said the co-ordination of infrastructure development and design work for teaching and learning would be “intentionally paced and co-ordinated for seamless merging”.

“The infrastructure plan will provide a road map and sequencing of when a school is scheduled to be opened or closed.”

The ministry said development work and transition planning for the next signature learning programmes were ongoing and that it would continue with the “phasing in” of parish primary school features at Francis Patton and Purvis as well as Harrington Sound Primary School and Elliot Primary School, which opened as parish schools this week.

Additionally, the ministry said the signature school for students with “exceptionalities” remained a “high priority”.

Ms Caesar said: “This term, a design team will begin the developmental work that will shape the vision for this specific signature school.”

Challenges with education reform have extended beyond the primary school setting. CedarBridge Academy, one of the island’s first signature schools, encountered problems with hiring teachers.

The Bermuda Union of Teachers members staged a sit-out last October to discuss the issue and some lessons had to be cancelled.

Ms Caesar said that during a review of education reform, parents, students, educators and partners shared “concerns and celebrations” along with their hopes for the future of education.

“These insights remind us to plan sensitively, strategically and always with the child at the centre,” Ms Caesar said.

“Our students, parents and educators deserve clarity and confidence in the path ahead. This stabilisation programme ensures that while we plan carefully for the future, we also remain steadfast in our commitment to equity, excellence and improved student outcomes today.”

“The ministry remains committed to creating policies that support the whole child, foster world-class teaching and learning, and expand opportunities for parents and the wider community to be active partners in our schools.

“Together, we will build an education system that serves every child, every family, and every community in Bermuda.”