“These have been unprecedented times. In my 36 years of teaching I have never faced such a challenging situation. The uncertainty, the ever changing guidance from the government and the responsibility for pupils and staff has at times been almost overwhelming. 

The staff at Salway Ash School have been amazing throughout. They have stepped forward and been prepared to do whatever has been required in order to provide the best provision possible for our pupils. This has been for those attending school and for those completing home learning. From the 1st June we have welcomed pupils back from reception, year 1 and year 6. Around 66% of families from these year groups have decided to send their children in to school. Throughout the lockdown starting on the 20th March the school has been open for children of key workers and those children deemed as vulnerable. This group has grown over the weeks reaching 11 by the middle of June. 

For staff who teach in small schools with two year groups to provide for these are difficult and complicated times. Teachers now have teaching responsibilities each day, often with year groups they have not previously taught. They are remaining with their group all day with no break as due to government restrictions no mixing of staff within groups is allowed. Alongside this, they are also keeping home learning going for those not in school, setting work, marking and giving individual feedback. School reports also have to be written this half term. Despite this pressure staff are interacting with pupils with a constant smile and positive encouragement for all. 

Although the layout of school looks very different; individual desks and equipment for each child set 2 meters apart and no mixing of groups during break times, the feeling of community remains.  We appreciate and acknowledge that we are all in this together; everyone wants to play their part and help each other through in the best way possible. We are resolute in our determination to not only look after the academic progress of our pupils but also more importantly their mental health and wellbeing.  

How school will look in September we do not know. However, we will continue to do our best for all and look forward to the time we can all come together again and ‘Let our light shine as we achieve together’.”

Lisa L Crew
Headteacher
Salway Ash CE VA Primary School

12.06.2020

“Setting up the classrooms during this

Odd time has been very different from our old

Classrooms.  It’s obviously a worrying time and trying to

Include all the children is not possible in school at the moment.

All the children have been amazing and have come to school

Laughing, smiling and happy to be back.

Deciding how this will all work

Is not easy.  However, the children have been

Superb and have learnt the new rules very quickly.

The hall has been set up for key worker children

And has worked very well, with lots of fun, games and learning.

Nobody should feel scared or afraid so lots of laughter is needed.  The 

Children have coped very well especially with the 2 metre social distancing. 

Each day has been different, but enjoyable. The children feel valued and important.”

By Debbie Phillips
Cover supervisor
18.06.2020