A New Normal

We are now well into our third week of wider opening to more groups of pupils. The immense preparation and planning is now behind us as we put those plans into action in school. I am delighted to say that initial nerves have now subsided and we are all happily settled into new routines.

The media coverage surrounding the wider opening of schools has been most unhelpful and has given some parents the impression that school would be sterile, unfamiliar and unfriendly. I can assure you that our ‘new normal’ at St William’s is not a bit like that. Yes children have their own table and resources and yes we are ‘encouraging’ social distancing for our older children, particularly indoors. However, they are delighted to be back with their teachers and friends and school has regained its warm and happy atmosphere. Children are resilient and adaptable and some new routines have certainly not got in the way of them enjoying school.

This seven weeks will give us the opportunity to get our children back on track, not only with their learning but with the social and emotional aspects of school life. This is precious time – we will not waste it! Sadly, we can’t take all our school family back and some families are understandably, not ready. Thank you for all you are doing to keep you child up to date with their learning at home – if there is anymore we can help you with, do not hesitate to contact the school office. We will keep calm, carry on and see what September brings.