Redlands, Logan, Scenic Rim students to start returning to school from next week

From May 11, students in kindy, Prep, Years 1, 11 and 12 will return to school.

"These are the children who are at the most important junctures of schooling - the beginning and the end of their educational journey," Ms Palaszczuk said.

The state government has proposed that students in the remaining grades be allowed back to school on May 25.

State-wide easing of restrictions will be assessed on May 15.

It is welcome news for some parents struggling to help their children learn from home.

Ms Palaszczuk said a sensible, gradual return was only possible because of Queensland's success in slowing the spread of COVID-19.

"Compare what has happened in this state to what has happened in other parts of the world and Queensland can be very proud," she said.

Education Minister Grace Grace said the government's plan has been endorsed by the independent and Catholic school sector as well as principals and teachers alike.

Social distancing measures will be in place to protect adults at schools.

For weeks, the state government had reinforced that it would not reconsider letting children back to school until May 15, despite calls from Opposition MPs to open the schools.

Opposition leader Deb Frecklington said the announcement was a devastating blow to the economy.

"The LNP believes Labor's staged approach will create haves and have nots, will split families and leave some kids falling behind," she said.

"Pushing the reopening of schools out another three weeks isn't a plan for recovery - it's a Labour Day present for the teachers union that will cost more Queensland jobs.

"Queensland schools should be open now."

Chief Health Officer Dr Jeanette Young said Queensland's early response to confronting the pandemic was paying dividends now.

"You only have to look at what we were dealing with prior to the school holidays with what we have now to appreciate why Queensland is in the strong position it is," Dr Young said.