Return school ‘hugely successful’ as pupils, parents and teachers are relieved to back at school
Prestatyn High have now welcomed back a wider number of pupils as part of the ‘Check in, Catch Up, Prepare for summer and September’ Welsh Government scheme.
Neil Foley, Headteacher at Prestatyn High school, said: "The wider opening of the school has been hugely successful. Both staff and pupils have quickly adapted to the changes and we are delighted to have them all back. A school is nothing without pupils and they have been missed greatly. We appreciate the support and cooperation of our fantastic parents and the wider community.”
PHS has been open every day since lockdown began for keyworker and vulnerable pupils and this has prepared us well for the challenges we faced in opening up further. Pupils, parents and teachers at Prestatyn High have all said they were relieved and happy to be back at school.
A Year 10 pupil said: ‘I was really nervous about returning to school, but going into Year 11 I felt was important. I didn’t need to worry at all, yes school is different but I feel safe and supported.”
As well as key worker children, 60% of pupils from Years 7-10 are now back in school. Year12 students are in everyday to make sure they are catching up, ready for their exams next year.
Sam on twitter said: “Your communication, organisation and reassurance has been fantastic 👍🏻 Well done!! My son (Y7) has missed school so much, he’s had so much encouragement from his teachers virtually, it’s been so well managed..”
Angela Evans said: “My son, mars 9, enjoyed his first day back in school on Monday Thumbs up 👍🏻”
The school has conducted robust risk assessments ahead of the wider opening in line with Department for Education guidance to ensure the safety and protection of children, staff and adults. Assessments included protective and hygiene measures, staffing, site and premises assessments, learning considerations, as well as two-way communications with parents.
Prestatyn High school will continue to provide home learning resources for children not attending school. The school is now on mission to make sure the pupils catch up and get ready for any challenges ahead.