Castle Primary School and Buckland St Mary pupils return to school

Staff at Buckland St Mary C of E Primary School, and Castle Primary School in Stoke-sub-Hamdon were “energised and excited” to welcome back the students.

Gareth Nation, executive head of the schools, said: “I’d like to thank all of the staff, parents and children for their commitment to the children’s learning and wellbeing at this challenging time.

“We have all experienced personal and professional challenges throughout this turbulent period but the shared vision and culture of both schools has prevailed.”

Both schools have received support from The Redstart Learning Partnership and other agencies to ensure they keep running during the coronavirus pandemic.

The children’s social, emotional and mental health have been at the forefront of their plans.

Mrs Laura Liddell, assistant head of Castle Primary School, added: “We are so proud of the children, how they have adapted to, and in many cases, embraced remote learning.

“The same can also be said of staff.

“It’s fair to say it has been a learning curve for us all.

“But, together, we bring many new strengths with us as we return to face-to-face teaching and learning.”