Sleaford school staff shoot Youtube video to show support for lockdown students

Since schools closed over a week ago, most students, apart from some whose parents are key workers or they are from vulnerable families, have been faced with continuing their studies from the confines of their their home, with work set by their teachers. GCSE and A-level students were shocked to learn that their exams had been cancelled and grades would be awarded based on an assessment by their teachers of their work up until now.

Staff decided to show their support for the teenagers with a reassuring message, as a number of the tutors, including principal Laranya Caslin sang along to the words of sixties hit ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ by Gerry and the Pacemakers, while doing household chores.

Mrs Caslin said in a message attached to the film, which has already gained 2,832 views since been uploaded on Monday: “After a week of working from home, you have been very much in our thoughts. We know it can be hard to keep going when you feel like you are isolated and so we wanted you to know that you’re not really alone!”

She told the Standard: “The video came about as a result of our concerns over the mental health and wellbeing of the children on home-study for an extended period of time, especially seeing as there are no definite timescales regarding our current situation which causes additional anxiety for many.

“We decided that we would incorporate a number of ‘touching base’ strategies and so various subjects have incorporated weekly challenges and quizzes and the pastoral team are looking at recording virtual assemblies.

“As a senior leadership team, we decided that we would lead by example and be the first to put together something that would hopefully raise a smile and help the children (and staff) reconnect with their school community.”

She wenton: “We have settled into a good routine at school for the students who are attending. They seem to be enjoying themselves.

“The teachers are in regular contact with the students at home and supporting as best they can.

“We are extending our provision over the Easter holiday, in conjunction with Robert Carre Trust, and that includes food provision for those who are entitled to free school meals.”

Sleaford Community Larder had stepped up to provide free school meals for students eligible who attend Robert Carre Trust schools and St George’s Academy, with the schools diverting their free school meals funds to the charity to buy more stock.

Mrs caslin said: “We have said that we will provide funding for them during Easter out of school funds (because the funding we receive only covers term time).

“All in all, we’re weathering the storm pretty well, all things considered, and trying to be a bit of an anchor for our school community in these times of great uncertainty.”