Just pick up where we left off’

secondary schools.

“All of these have had to be cancelled and all transition work with secondary schools is also being delivered remotely.

“Finally, opening for other year groups is a key challenge.

“By restricting our protective bubbles to no more than 15 children, we do not have the physical or staff capacity to welcome back all year groups unless it is undertaken on a rota basis, but that would lead to staff working across more than one protective bubble.”

The trust’s schools stayed open during lockdown for children of key workers every weekday, including school and bank holidays, with the youngsters attending a hub based at two of the schools.

Teachers at several of the schools made their own music videos during lockdown to reach out to pupils who were stuck at home.

Ms Sandford has sent out a weekly message to parents and carers, while school leaders and other staff have emailed regularly, telephoned and even done doorstep visits.

She said: “My key message of reassurance is, by welcoming so many children back, we have taken our first steps on the road to recovery and normality.

“Our dedicated staff are doing everything in their power to put children at ease and to make sure everyone is as safe as possible.

“Take a walk past the school, see the smiles on the faces of staff and children, hear the laughter, and know that we want to see all of our school families back together as soon as possible.”