Primary schools will be encouraged to welcome back all year groups from next week if they have the capacity to accommodate maximum class sizes of 15 pupils.
But most schools don't have the staff or the space and the new guidance comes with no extra money or support. The Labour Party has said the short notice of the announcement will contribute to "widespread confusion" for schools, pupils and parents.
Currently Reception, Year One and Year Six have been brought back in some schools - although others have decided to wait longer.
But last week the government was forced to shelve plans for all primary school children to return to the classroom before the long summer holiday.