Senator Tracey Vallois has also said she hopes to give an update next week on the plan for the gradual re-opening of schools and colleges.
Non-government provided early years services, private nurseries and schools are also being advised to remain closed.
In a statement Senator Vallois said: ‘I am extremely mindful of the need to provide as much notice as possible to schools, parents and carers about re-opening.
‘I am meeting daily with officials in the Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills and they are liaising closely with the trades unions and school leaders to discuss how we can open schools safely.
‘I am hopeful to be in a position to announce further details next week on the plan which, as always, is being driven by advice and evidence from the health specialists.
‘I would like to express my sincere thanks and pay tribute to our students, parents and carers for adapting so well to their new learning environments and working so hard during this unsettling and difficult period.
‘And I am so grateful for the professionalism of our headteachers, teachers, support staff, union representatives and everyone who works in education. They are continuing to put children and young people first every day and provide continuity of care and learning to our students and their families.’
