WITH schools set to reopen to all students from tomorrow (March 8), it is understandable that many may be viewing the step with a little apprehension or anxiety.

After months of complete lockdown, leaving home can feel worrying.

However, across Basingstoke, schools have been working hard to prepare facilities for the return, ensuring both students and staff are safe, happy and catered for. They’ve also been getting systems in place for regular testing of students which will begin on their return.

The Gazette spoke to just a few, to give people in Basingstoke an idea of what covid-secure schools will look like.

At Everest Community Academy on Oxford Way, parents have access to a handy guide which explains the changes and steps in place.

Paul Grills, headteacher, said the focus of the four weeks to Easter will be to settle students back in school, with many health and safety steps remaining in place, including year group bubbles, year group entrances, playground areas and exits, and increased ventilation and hygiene routines.

He added: “Staff have been working hard to plan, prepare and welcome all students back. I would like to thank all students, parents and carers for their ongoing support of the school during this time.”

Meanwhile at Brighton Hill Community School on Brighton Way, thousands of pounds have been spent in making sure everything is ready, including stocking up on over 12,000 face mask, erecting hand sanitising stations at every entrance, marking a one-way system, and erecting marquees and canopies to offer students sheltered outdoor space.

Richard Edwards, business manager, said: “It’s been all hands to the pump, with everybody pitching in.

“We’ve had 60 or 70 kids in school the whole way through and their conduct has been really mature, so I know our students will rise to the challenge.”

And at Sherfield School in Sherfield-on-Loddon, deputy headteacher Christopher James-Roll said that the school will be allowing time for its students to readjust, and “rebuild social confidence”.

He said: “There are some significant challenges ahead for our children and our community. We will be doing all we can to help children reconnect with each other through assemblies, the Enrichment programme, PSHE initiatives, structured play and meditation, outdoor learning, out on the sports field and just getting away from the classroom to let off steam!

“Our children have been well served and done themselves proud during this unprecedented time. Now it is time to welcome our community back together; parents, pupils and staff alike.”

  • Do you work at a school in Basingstoke and Deane and want to share how you’ve been preparing for the return of pupils? Send us your pictures to newsdesk@basingstokegazette.co.uk