Students head back to school in West Sussex

Here's all you need to know

Author: Ryan BurrowsPublished 3rd Sep 2020
Last updated 3rd Sep 2020

Students across West Sussex are returning to classrooms on Thursday, for the first time since March.

It marks the first day back in lessons for more than five-sixths of the county's pupils, many of whom have been taking lessons from home since schools were shut six months ago to try and contain the spread of coronavirus.

West Sussex County Council has reassured parents that stringent measures are in place to make classrooms safe and to address any worries that those returning may have.

What will happen if there is an outbreak of coronavirus?

The Department for Education has announced new guidance ahead of the start of the new academic year.

A rota system could be brought in at secondary schools if there is a local lockdown.

Meanwhile entire year groups may have to self-isolate for 14 days if just one pupil in the 'bubble' tests positive for coronavirus.

Face coverings are also being recommended for staff and secondary school pupils in areas of England where there is a high rate of COVID-19.

They should be worn where social distancing is difficult to maintain, such as in corridors and communal areas.

How will schools be different?

While individual schools have been given the right to enforce social distancing and safety rules in a way that suits them, West Sussex County Council has issued the following blanket measures:

  1. Different drop-off and pick-up times for different classes.
  1. Teachers will ask pupils to wash their hands regularly before and after school.
  1. Assemblies, lunchtime and PE lessons will probably be held in smaller groups.
  1. Pupils will be part of what’s called a ‘bubble’ with their classmates, and learn and play together with this group throughout the day. They will also be encouraged to keep some space between others outside of their bubble.

What will be different in getting kids to and from school?

Parents in West Sussex are being encouraged to consider other ways of getting to and from school, including walking and cycling if possible.

Seven temporary cycle lanes have been created as part of this across West Sussex following the awarding of funding from the Government, with routes already in place in Chichester and Worthing.

Those who do travel into school are being advised they may have to drop off and pick up children away from the main entrance to avoid congestion.

In addition, some schools may have 'exclusion zones' near their gates which cars will not be permitted to enter.

Extra vehicles are being put on for those who rely on student transport services to get to school and all minibuses and taxis are regularly being deep-cleaned.

Those children aged 11 and above are being reminded to wear face coverings on school transport unless they have an exemption.

Children are being asked to sit in their bubbles or year groups where possible.

What can I do if my children struggle with the return to school?

Parents are being advised to get in touch with mental health services in Sussex if they feel their child is having difficulty adjusting to being back in lessons.

Specialists from Sussex Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) are offering online tips and guidance to parents and children about going back to school, and how to manage the new feelings and emotions they have experienced during time away from the classroom..

A list of top tips includes advice such as monitoring excessive worry or sadness, unhealthy eating or sleeping habits, and difficulty with attention and concentration.

Dr Alison Wallis, clinical director for children and young people's services at the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said:

"The last few months have been a particularly unsettling time for many children, and parents may have noticed changes to their child's behaviour as a result of them missing their friends, or not being part of mainstream education.

"Children and young people with disabilities including those with autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities and ADHD may find the impact of coronavirus particularly difficult to manage. It is important to explain change and manage any anxiety and distress they may be experiencing.Dr Alison Wallis, clinical director for children and young people's services at the

"Schools are doing everything they can to keep children and young people safe, while adhering to government guidelines. We know there is lots of uncertainty for parents, children and teachers. Where possible, try and limit the amount of information you look at, online or on TV about coronavirus."

A wide range of help and resources is available on the Sussex CAMHS website.