Kids return
Schools across West Lothian opened their doors to pupils again this week after being forced to close nearly five months ago because of the pandemic.
Pupils were welcomed back by teachers yesterday and today (Wednesday and Thursday) in a phased return.
Individual arrangements are in place in each school to ensure pupils safety and prevent the spread of coronavirus, based on national guidance from the Scottish Government.
And First Minister Nicola Sturgeon saw for herself the preparations made by schools when she visited West Calder High.
The Courier dropped in to Balbardie Primary School in Bathgate to see some of the arrangements they had made.
It’s back to school for West Lothian pupils who have not been in class for nearly five months because of the pandemic.
Schools re-opened yesterday (Wednesday) for youngsters as part of a phased return.
Individual arrangements were in place in each school to ensure pupils’ safety and prevent the spread of coronavirus, based on national guidance from the Scottish Government using latest scientific advice.
This included enhanced cleaning, hand sanitising points, one-way systems for pupils, increased ventilation, and special arrangements for activities such as breakfast clubs, school meals and PE.
The Courier visited Balbardie Primary School in Bathgate to see some of the arrangements in place for pupils returning.
Balbardie head teacher Margaret Johns said: “Everyone at Balbardie is delighted to welcome back our pupils. We have missed them so much and we can’t wait to get them back into school once more.
“Work has taken place during the school holiday period to make sure our school environment is safe for pupils and staff to return. “
Executive councillor for education David Dodds said: “Thanks to all the staff at Balbardie and every school in West Lothian who have been involved in making sure all our schools are safe and ready for pupils to return.
“It has been a huge task to do this during a holiday period in the face of ever evolving national guidance.
“Individual risk assessments have been carried out for each school, with local arrangements in place, which have been communicated to parents/carers.
“We know that most parents are keen for their children to get back into full-time education, which has clear benefits in terms of wellbeing, educational progress and attainment.”
Work has taken place to make sure our school is safe for pupils and staff to return