This week, the Prime Minister confirmed that Step 4 of the Roadmap will go ahead on the 19th July. The emphasis of the national response to coronavirus will shift from rules and regulations towards allowing people to make their own informed decisions but with the emphasis on still being cautious.
We would not be in the position to unlock were it not for the effectiveness of the vaccine roll out. For those who have not yet had their first dose, there are still plenty of slots available locally and more information on clinics can be found here: www.sussexhealthandcare.uk/keepsussexsafe/sussex-covid-19-vaccination-programme
On Friday, I visited Greenway Academy to discuss how the school and students have coped during the pandemic as well as to hear about their exciting building plans for which they have secured Department for Education investment.
Whilst I was visiting the school, I was able to see the Year 6’s rehearsing for their end of year play “Shakespeare Rocks”. The performance will be outdoors and socially distanced, allowing parents to watch. The children were excellent in rehearsals and I know parents are in for a great evening!
As our schools and colleges enter their last few days before the end of term, it is important to reflect back on what has been a difficult time for our young people and teachers. Covid has accentuated existing problems - something of which parents, students and teachers are all very aware. These concerns are not simply attributable to Covid though I hope as we all become more familiar with the lifting of restrictions this will help.
When students return to the classroom in September restrictions will have been lifted. The bubble system will be removed allowing for larger group activities to take place. Students will only need to isolate if they have tested positive for Coronavirus and the rules on precautionary isolation will be significantly relaxed.
When I visited Greenway the students (and teachers!) were excited about the upcoming England game with many making their predictions on who would win and what the final score would be. I think we all predicted it would be a nail-biting game and whilst we did not win, our England team should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved. They have given us moments of joy after what has been a hugely difficult eighteen months. I am, however, disgusted at the appalling racist abuse targeted at players after the game. The team exemplified a lot that is so good about our country, it was sickening to see how some responded and I hope every effort is taken to hold offenders accountable.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Quin met Karen White, Headteacher at Greenway Academy.