Head teachers welcome Worthing and Shoreham pupils’ return to school

Having been closed to all but vulnerable children and those of critical workers since before Christmas, primary schools opened to all pupils again this morning, with most secondary schools having a phased reopening this week.

And although its early days, it seems like the transition back to in-school learning has been going well so far, according to head teachers and school staff.

Just Jeffrey, head of school at Downsbrook Primary School in Dominion Road, Worthing said staff were delighted to welcome children back today.

“We know that this year has been unlike any other for each and every one of them and their families. The way that they have coped over the past year has been truly wonderful to see and we couldn’t wait to get them all settled back into their classes and reunited with their friends and teachers today.

“We are incredibly proud of all our children for the strength, determination, and resilience that they have shown, whether learning in school or remotely from home. Our staff have worked exceptionally hard to provide the very best for all our pupils in terms of learning and their general weel being and they should be recognised for the care that they have shown in their roles.

“Now that we are all back together, the school feels full of life and energy. It’s great to have all of the children back again.”

At Thomas A’Becket Infant School, in Pelham Road, Worthing, staff celebrated pupils’ return with balloons, banners and flags adorning the whole school.

Amanda Dingwall, head teacher, said: “We are happy to report that everybody was socially distancing and all adults wore masks on site.

“We have 535 very happy children here today – our staff have all been fantastic in welcoming the children back.”

Meanwhile at The Vale School, in Vale Avenue, Findon Valley, head teacher Martin Garratt said: “We have been so pleased to be able to welcome all the children back to school today.

“The morning went extremely smoothly. It was lovely seeing all the smiling faces as they arrived back.”

Attendance was high over at Swiss Garden Primary School in Swiss Gardens, Shoreham.

Head teacher Lawrence Caughlin said: “We are delighted to have all the children back in school today – 99 per cent attendance on day one.

“They are happy and excited to be back in school.

“The whole school community has done an amazing job through the lockdowns at maintaining a great provision for our children. Staff in school and working from home have gone the extra mile and the children have worked so hard, supported by their parents and carers.”