I think best solution to the school issue is for ALL kids to repeat the year. This creates a logjam, but kids start formal learning too soon in UK anyway. Have two years of reception-class 'learning through play' (kids turning 5 & 6). Years 1-13 would be for kids turning 7-19.

Over time, you may then be able to compress years 1-13 into years 1-12, and end up back with a total of 14 years in 'school' (2 reception/learning through play + 12 formal). But for a temporary period, kids continuing until the year they turn 19 is ok.

This requires primary schools to set up extra reception classes - although this provision could be made in some nurseries too (but it would be a compulsory structured year). This is where funding would be required - early years is one of the best places govt could spend money.

I accept that this is a nightmare for universities, because no students would enter uni this year, leading toi significant problems (especially financial). But I am simply thinking about the best outcomes for students and their education here.

And a one-off injection of government money to universities would solve the 1 year hiatus issue.

Not only does this strategy address many of the current Covid education issues, but it also potentially transforms early years education for years to come, which has massive potential benefits for kids.