The purpose of these guidelines is to be a practical reference to:
- explore the pedagogical opportunities and challenges of a blended learning model and to identify key considerations that can help with reflection and strategic planning;
- specifically support planning for the start of the next academic year; however, they may also inspire lasting positive change for inclusive and innovative school education;
- guide policy makers in considering the system as a whole, but will also be useful to regional and local authorities, school leaders, and other stakeholders in their own contexts;
- complement existing guidelines by national authorities and international organisations2 on school reopening and on distance learning, and support new national guidelines that will enable all learners to benefit from combining in-school and distance learning;
- a broad perspective by considering: school leadership; legislation to support decisionmaking; the management of in-school and distance learning environments for all learners; the teacher’s role, competences, and working conditions; learner assessment; the well-being of staff and pupils; collaboration and school community; and quality assurance