LOUGHBOROUGH SCHOOLS FOUNDATION SAFELY WELCOMES PUPILS BACK TO CLASSROOMS
Loughborough Schools Foundation has unveiled a raft of health and safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as pupils returned to the classroom on Monday (1st June).
In line with government guidance, Fairfield Prep School and Loughborough Amherst School welcomed back more of its early years and primary school children to complete the academic year.
School leaders stressed that they have undertaken a comprehensive risk assessment ahead of re-opening and put safeguards in place to protect pupils, staff, families and the wider community.
Andrew Earnshaw, Head of Fairfield Prep School said:
“It was great to welcome some of our pupils back to their classrooms on Monday. We understand that this has been a challenging time for everyone and returning to school, after being at home for more than two months, is bound to feel unsettling.
“This is why we only opened our doors once we were absolutely satisfied that we had the right plan in place to keep everyone safe and well, and ensure our pupils continue to receive the best education.
“Alongside rigorous cleaning, handwashing and good respiratory hygiene practices, we’ve introduced staggered arrival and departure times and grouped children into small ‘pods’ so they only mix with the same people each day.
“The curriculum has also been revised, with a focus on practical activities we were unable to deliver during lockdown.
I want to reassure everyone that we are following government guidelines closely, including any updates, and will be in regular contact with families. Our outstanding remote learning program will also continue to deliver a full curriculum for the students who are continuing to study from home.”
The campus has been closed to most children since 20th March – but lessons have continued for the children of key workers and international boarders, unable to return home due to travel restrictions, who have remained on site to continue studying, as well as enjoying ball games, cycle rides and bonfires.
The past few weeks had been a ‘hive’ of activity for staff and pupils at home too, as they commemorated VE Day, took on sporting challenges and played virtual music concerts.
“Although we haven’t been together, we’re proud of our strong community spirit and are thrilled to see it alive and well in people’s homes.” Andrew added.
“Children baked and dressed up in red, white and blue for VE Day, while one of our Year 10 pupils raised more than £3,200 for Derby and Burton Hospitals Charity by riding 120 miles on a static bike.
“Another of our pupils brought joy to those who are housebound by delivering afternoon tea in a box to them, and members of the Foundation’s Flute Ensemble delivered a wonderful performance from home.”
To find out more about the safety measures Loughborough Schools Foundation has in place for re-opening, visit www.lsf.org/prep-re-opening
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