SCHOOLS across the district have been praised for how they’ve managed the challenges posed so far by the coronavirus crisis.

Many have remained open during lockdown to cater for the children of key workers and vulnerable youngsters.

And from early last month, pupils in years one and six – and nursery and reception – began to return.

This week the executive headteacher of Wilsden Primary School – and Thornton Primary in Bradford – Liz Davison, spoke of some of the challenges and how pupils had “truly embraced the new norm”.

The two schools are among those which have continued to open since lockdown began.

Mrs Davison said: “Children across the country have been through so much change – not being able to see friends and family and for some, having to adapt to home schooling and being taught by parents and carers instead of teachers.

“In my experience, the children and their families have adapted brilliantly.

“We’ve tried to keep learning as varied and enjoyable as possible and we’ve even celebrated different events such as VE Day – all in a socially-distanced way, of course. Thanks to some fantastic weather we have also taken advantage of outdoor learning and our garden has never looked so good.”

She said staff had been in school from 7.45am to 6pm each day so parents could continue in their key-worker roles. And teachers had been busy planning and sending out learning activities to pupils at home.

“All of our learners took home a workbook so that they would have something in which to record the activities,” added Mrs Davison.

“They have also been using an online platform so that they can communicate with each other through their teacher, as well as contribute to a class blog and complete different set activities.

“Our teachers have also been phoning children every week to check if they are getting on with their learning or if there is anything they need.

“Of course it has been different and it has required a lot of hard work from both our teachers and support staff – and our children – but for the most part it has been a positive experience.

“I am incredibly proud of everyone and the way they have embraced the changes.”

Wilsden and Thornton primary schools are part of Focus-Trust, a charitable multi-academy trust established in 2012. Based in the north-west of England, it works with 15 primary academies.