A thank you to all our school staff heroes

WE have all experienced a very challenging and different 2020, none more so than teaching staff in schools and children learning in a new environment.

Teachers already have to deal with copious amounts of work in the normal world, let alone adding to it the realities of Covid-19, such as teaching online, learning online technologies and providing safe places for children of key workers and vulnerable children.

Teachers reach out to pupils on a level that goes beyond the curriculum in classrooms. Delivering a quality education under these new restrictions is a noble achievement.

Like our courageous key workers that selflessly continue to keep vital services running for us, teaching and admin staff in our schools are among the unsung heroes of Covid19.

Teachers have not only had to juggle parenting and teaching at home with their own children, but also prepare for remote learning; ensure that children’s education is not compromised; clean classrooms for everyone’s safety; and continually stay in contact with children and parents to make sure they are coping with homework.

There are still challenges ahead but what this pandemic has shown is that so much can be achieved by working together and creatively.

Teachers and admin staff in schools deserve our thanks and appreciation for continuing to deliver a highquality education to our school children.

During this reality of Covid-19, we’ve all had to adapt our lives during 2020 and beyond.

For teachers and admin staff in schools all across West Berkshire, I want to personally say thank you, every day.

You are, and always will be, our heroes.

HOWARD WOOLLASTON Chairman, Health and Wellbeing Board at West Berkshire Council