Children across York welcomed back to school after six months

Pupils from across York have been welcomed back to the classroom today after being away since March because of the coronavirus pandemic.

After six months, children can expect a lot of changes when they get to school; including staggered start times, one-way systems and year group bubbles to limit interactions.

Lynn James, Executive Principal at Outwood Academy Easingwold, said: "We've looked very robustly at what we can do to minimise risk in an imperfect time, so we can make the learning experience as safe as possible.

"We're all really excited to start. I know there's a degree of nervousness but we know the best place for schooling is within a school."

It's a new school term like no other - going back to class in a pandemic has brought many changes and challenges for teachers, pupils and parents across York.

New rules on face coverings; social distancing and hygiene have added extra pressure on schools and families during what is already a busy time of year.

Ms James, added: "We have got year group bubbles, we've zoned the school so some classrooms will only be used to some pupils. It is a very different situation but hasn't everything felt different recently? I think we're all just getting used to it.

"It's important that we keep parents updated. Things change so rapidly and they need to be kept in the loop.

"Schools are a constant in a community. Whether we're in a pandemic or not, our job is to look after students and that's what we will do."

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Bridget Perks, Deputy Principal of the Mount School in York, said: "Who'd have ever thought that pupils were desperate to get back to school, staff are desperate to get back to work. It sounds funny saying it but we have very strong relationships and are excited to be back. 

"Getting back together again is massive and there's a real enthusiasm for it. It's genuine, the relationships we have with pupils is real."