A message of thanks from Cllr Sarah Nield, lead councillor for schools
2020 has delivered shock after shock for us all but especially for our dedicated educators. Across the city we have seen school, nursery and childcare providers rise to unforeseen challenges with dignity, determination and compassion.
Citywide impact
It is now seven months since schools suddenly closed to all pupils, except keyworkers’ children and vulnerable children. Back in March, when almost all school age children were asked to stay home, schools continued to open for those pupils the government announced needed to go in during the pandemic.
It was no easy task to organise the new systems for pupils in and out of school. Yet that’s exactly what happened swiftly and with a turnaround of mere days.
Impressive feat
Then, while the strange new way of working was maintained for months on end, monumental work was underway to prepare for wider re-opening in this Autumn term. Now our city school attendance is 92%, better than the national average. It’s an impressive feat.
Nursery, early years and childminders also felt the severe impact of Covid restrictions. Services and arrangements have been fundamentally changed. All this time, staff have worked tirelessly to assess and implement measures to keep everyone safe.
Heroes
There is no doubt that our teachers, college and sixth form staff, childminders, nursery carers, support staff, lunchtime staff, cleaners, and so many more, have been heroes throughout this crisis. Often unsung heroes at that.
As we pause for half term, I would like to say a heartfelt and humble thank you to all in this city who have continued to nurture and educate the next generation under such difficult circumstances.
Thank you so much, you are amazing.