CORONAVIRUS: Schools pledge to do all they can to minimise Covid risk as pupils return to classroom

Schools across Boston are preparing to welcome pupils back into the classroom over the next week or so after almost six months of virtual closure during lockdown.
Some schools are advising the wearing of masks in some communal areas as per Government guidanceSome schools are advising the wearing of masks in some communal areas as per Government guidance
Some schools are advising the wearing of masks in some communal areas as per Government guidance

Staff have been working hard to ensure buildings are ready and that they themselves are prepared for a very different type of school day.

And as the Government continues to update its advice on an almost daily basis, local schools and education leaders have moved to reassure pupils, families, and their own staff as the return to classrooms begins.

William Lovell Church of England Academy in Stickney is due to re-open tomorrow (Thursday) but staff will have already been in for two days prior to that to ensure they are all confident with new measures put in place.

Headteacher Katherine Cocker-Goring said she was confident those measure would safeguard staff and students against unnecessary covid-19 risk.

“I appreciate that it is impossible to completely eradicate the risk, but we have taken all reasonable and sensible steps to reduce it as much as possible. Currently, the covid-19 community transition rates in Lincolnshire are thought to be low, so re-opening schools now seems appropriate,” she said.

“We have ensured that we have followed all Government advice relating to the school return.

“I appreciate that as a small school it is potentially a lot easier for us to put these measures in place. For example, each of our year groups are able to access separate toilet facilities, entrances, and classrooms areas – this will not be possible in all schools and we are blessed that it is possible in our setting.

“I am incredibly proud of how the William Lovell community has united to prepare for September opening with so many staff having gone above and beyond to support students and their families.

“I certainly never expected to be leading a school during a national pandemic when I started my career – this isn’t something that any training course ever really prepares you for – so, I am eternally grateful for the efforts of staff, including the Lincoln Anglican Academy Trust central team, in rallying together to ensure that the September opening is as safe as it can be.”

With regard to mask wearing in the school, she said the trust was currently in discussion with staff and directors about the issue.

The Boston Witham Academy says it will be following Government advice and encouraging students to wear face coverings in its secondary school, Haven High, in communal areas where social distancing is difficult.

The trust’s schools are also due to open tomorrow.

BWAF chief executive Emma Hadley said: “Our trust team has been working incredibly hard throughout the summer to ensure that all risk assessments and Government guidance are fully in place to ensure a smooth and safe start to the new school year for our pupils and staff.

“We fully acknowledge that some families may feel anxious and uncertain about a full return to school, but we can assure them that we have robust plans and systems in place.

“Each head of academy will be happy to meet with, answer questions, and further reassure any families who remain concerned.

“At Haven High Academy we are following the Government advice and encouraging our students to wear face masks in smaller communal areas, like corridors where social distancing can be more challenging.

“Other risk reducing measures across all eight academy sites include increased hygiene routines, grouping pupils together, staggered break and lunch times, and rigorous cleaning procedures.

“Most of all, we are excited to see all of our pupils from across the trust together again next week – and to begin again our focus on providing the very best teaching, learning and personal development opportunities for every young person in our care.”

Lincolnshire County Council has been working with schools to ensure pupils can return safely.

In a statement from the council, Matthew Van Lier, head teacher at Haven High Academy in Boston, said: “Lincolnshire County Council has been working closely with schools to ensure pupils can continue with their education. School really is the best place for children to be – not just for their education, but for their wellbeing and routine too.

“A number of important risk reduction measures have been put in place to help students and teachers return to school with confidence. It’s going to be a bit different for all, but I know all schools, together with the county council and other partners, remain committed to supporting the education and future of every child.”

Mark Rainey, children’s commissioning manager, stressed that all pupils who needed school transport would get it, but said they were encouraging those who could walk or cycle, or who could get a lift into school, to do so.

He said:“If you are entitled to school transport but you are not planning to use it this September, please let us know through our website.”

“If your situation changes, you will of course be able to start using school transport again.”

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