COVID-19: Pupils return to school in Dorset
Here are what some children and parents in the county told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset about going back to school today
Last updated 8th Mar 2021
Schools in Dorset are reopening to all children today for the first time since January.
On students return, whole families and households with primary school, secondary school and college age children, including childcare and support bubbles, can test themselves twice-weekly from home.
Since the announcement, the government has strengthened protective measures so adults and students in year 7 and above will have to wear face coverings (unless they are exempt) in an indoor setting.
This may be reviewed by the Government at Easter.
Greatest Hits Radio Dorset has been speaking to parents and children in the county about what they think of children going back to school.
Millie Cridland is a Year 7 student and says she doesn't want to go back.
"There's going to be lots of people there and the work is a lot harder with everything going on.
"I also have more than one friend so it's going to be hard to pick where to sit. Loads of people are going to want to sit with their group of friends which means there won't be many seats, I think most of us will sit outside."
Debbie, Millie's mum, says she's apprehensive but is confident the school has measures in place to keep everyone safe.
"It's not ideal for the children to have to wear masks for 90% of the school day but it will hopefully help the children's mental health being able to socialise in person instead of online.
"I just think Covid testing three times a week puts a strain on the pupils and staff."
Nancy Garman is also a year 7 pupil, but she doesn't mind going back.
"They've been doing Covid tests which is more reasuring but I am not really comfortable with people hugging all the time but I guess people haven't seen each other in a while.
"I think the teachers will take a bit more seriously this time, I don't think the kids will, maybe a tiny bit more seriously but not that serious so they'll just go around hugging each other."
Sarah Garman is Nancy's mum, she's really pleased the children are going back.
"The online lessons have been wonderful but it will be great for Nancy to be able to see her friends and experience learning in the classroom again. "It's been really hard for the children being isolated from friends but the end is in sight now and I am very excited for her to get back to school."