Pandemic-related secondary school closures
There is insufficient knowledge on the impact of school closures during a pandemic. A school closure can have a major impact on students, and therefore influence society and the economy in the longer term. The PRESENT-consortium is therefore mapping the diverse effects of secondary and MBO school closures. This will allow us to better advise and make decisions during future pandemics.
Goal
The aim of the study is to better understand the effect of school closures on the spread of COVID-19, and the secondary social, mental and economic consequences associated with school closure. These insights can be weighed against each other in future pandemics. In addition, vulnerable groups will be identified to recommend mitigating measures and policies that help to relieve the pressure on these groups.
Approach
The scientists use a new method to analyze the spread of COVID-19 in schools during the pandemic and the effects of measures on it. They will also review previous studies on this topic. The research team will also map the impact of school closures on children's educational achievement, their transition to higher education and employment, and the impact on mental well-being. Finally, the researchers will use this information to weigh up the economic costs and benefits. From the beginning of the study societal actors will be involved to provide their lived experiences and work together on translating results into strategies.
Collaboration partners
This research is being conducted by the PRESENT-consortium, with dr. Anja Schreijer medical director of the Pandemic Disaster and Preparedness Centre (PDPC) as project leader. Together with Erasmus MC, Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB), UMC Utrecht, SEO Economic Research and Nivel, the PDPC is investigating the short- and medium-term effects of the closure of Dutch secondary schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. The different partners bring separate expertise and datasets in the following areas; school closures, mental health, learning performance and economic impact which ensures a multidisciplinary approach.
(Expected) Results
Results are expected by late 2026, as follows:
- Literature synthesis of the effect of school closures on spread of respiratory virus infections
- Reconstruction of the spread pattern of SARS-CoV-2 on schools in the Netherlands
- Estimation of differences between students and schools in the contribution to the spread of SARS-CoV-2
- Effect of school closures on education, work and mental well-being, differentiated by student group and school characteristics
- Effectiveness of a flanking policy in reducing the negative effects of school closures
- Individual income loss of students in the Netherlands and GDP change due to school closures