DR MICHAEL CARSLAW HEADMASTER, ST LEONARDS SCHOOL

MARITAL STATUS Married CHILDREN Three daughters aged 21, 24 and 27

MAIN SUBJECT Biology

We have introduced safe distancing, and the boys and girls are wearing face masks in corridors and communal areas. Pupils are temperature- checked on arrival, and we have plenty of handwashing facilities and hand sanitiser.

There are more outdoor seating areas so classes can be held outside; we have six marquees for extra classroom space, and large polytunnels for sport and shelter. We also have yurts for drama and outdoor activities, and – as we are right by the sea – we are also using the beach for outdoor learning.

Most of our lessons are longer so there is less movement, and we are provided lunchbox meals so the pupils can take them into the grounds rather than all remaining in the dining hall.

We started our “landing programme” for our new boarders two weeks before term began to get them used to the new situation. We had a staggered return for everybody, with video clips to show them the new system. We have moved a lot more on to technology with pupils taking Chromebooks and the like from class to class rather than lots of books which eliminates the need for lockers. If any student is absent, they can access their learning remotely.

A couple of weeks before lockdown, we started running hybrid lessons with Google Classroom and an information system called Managebac, so we were well prepared. Everyone has gone through a phenomenal upskilling in the use of technology.

We have been keeping the curriculum going as normally as possible, although contact sports are not possible and the swimming pool isn’t open yet. Our community links, such as with Madras Rugby Club, are continuing. And we have had lots of virtual “coffee meets” with parents – in fact I think we have ended up communicating more with parents and pupils than ever.