KEY workers in the borough’s schools have been thanked for their efforts in recent weeks as we head into the Easter break.
Schools were closed by the government three weeks ago for all pupils except children of key workers and the most vulnerable in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Cllr Sue Murphy, St Helens Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for developing young people, has paid tribute to education staff who have continued to support children, young people and families in the borough during such a difficult and unprecedented time.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to all our early years providers, schools and colleges for trying their best to restore normality during what is such an uncertain time,” Cllr Murphy said.
“They have been resourceful in their use of remote and engaging learning activities – some even creating celebration assemblies, virtual tours of zoos and famous landmarks – while not letting important awareness events like World Autism Day recently go by unnoticed.
“They have networked to ensure that, should one school be forced to close, another will step in and provide a resource base for pupils in that locality and have gone out of their way to ensure that the children of our key workers can receive quality care over the Easter break – including bank holidays – while their parents carry out their duties.
“In response to demand for places for early years provision, we have even set up two emergency crèche facilities for the young children of those key workers.
“They have shown particular care to those who need a little extra support, delivering free school meals, phoning to check that all is well and maintaining a sense of community spirit despite the constraints of social isolation.”
The Labour Billinge and Seneley Green councillor also praised parents who have shown “tremendous resilience” – despite being anxious and concerned for their families.
Cllr Murphy said: “They have responded to the challenges set by their teachers, attended school when they would normally be on holiday and have shown their creativity, brightening the neighbourhoods with rainbows and messages of thanks to those who are working so hard to protect and support us all.
“It’s moments like this when our school family really does us proud in coming together to ease pressures during such difficult situations.”
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