Tom talks I’m so proud of all our school pupils
BY RENFREWSHIRE
SOUTH MSP TOM ARTHUR
With our schools across Renfrewshire preparing to welcome pupils from next week, this is a real milestone moment not just for returning pupils and their parents and carers but for us all.
Children and young people have been particularly impacted by the restrictions that had to be put in place to protect us, and I’m delighted that they have been able to have a sense of normality toward the end of their summer break, easing anxieties about meeting friends and spending time with each other.
I’m also so proud of our pupils who have received their results this week.
I remember too well the feeling of anticipation and dread waiting of mine coming through.
These have been a very difficult and unusual set of circumstances. Whether or not you received the results you hoped for, you can be incredibly proud of all your hard work.
And remember, there is no wrong path.
Course results don’t define you and you have more options than you can possibly imagine.
If you’re looking for advice on next steps, support is available from Skills Development Scotland, by calling 0808 100 8000 or visiting myworldofwork. co.uk
Opening our schools full time is the biggest step so far in the Scottish Government’s route out of lockdown, and one that has taken considerable dedication and compliance to achieve.
The First Minister has made no apologies for putting the education and attainment of young people at the forefront of our recovery, but I recognise the impact that this has had on many.
Each change has to be carefully measured for its impact on the transmission rate, which means that the route map is taking a slow, methodological approach.
For this, I’m glad to see that provisional dates have been put in place for the reopening of social venues such as bingo halls and live music venues.
This week will also see the resumption of counselling services and some support groups, and sports coaches will be able to resume work as well.
While this pandemic has had an impact on our collective mental health, I hope that the resumption of these services will be a positive boost for those who use them.
Also, from the start of this month, friends and family members who have been shielding during this pandemic have been able to emerge from their protective bubbles and enjoy the same opportunities as the rest of us.
With the transmission rate sufficiently low to lift this guidance, it will be a welcome boost for those who have been isolated. It is still wise for those who were shielding to exercise caution, and information is available https://www.gov.scot/ publications/covid-shielding/.
This includes guidance for returning to work and accessing other support.
Whilst we are all moving towards a sense or normality, it is vitally important to remember the threat that is still posed by Covid-19 and reduce the opportunity for it to spread.
Recent clusters have shown how quickly the virus can spread and the importance of our vigilance in adhering to government guidelines.
I am so glad to see that we have a clear route, and that people are playing their part to keep each other safe.
To that end, my constituency office remains closed following government advice to work from home where possible however, my team and I remain on hand to help with your queries.
I am dealing with calls and emails, and conducting surgeries online. Please get in touch if there is anything I can help with.
Stay safe, and remember your FACTS.