Year 10 students head back to Hathershaw

In line with Government guidance, the Hathershaw College extended its opening today (Monday) to students in Year 10.

During the period of lockdown, the school has only been closed on bank holidays and weekends.

It has remained open at all other times, even during holiday periods, for the children of key workers and those who have needed extra support.

Hathershaw College Principal Mark Giles said: “The enforced school closure has been a difficult period for everyone.

"The best place for children is always in school, as long as it is safe for them and the staff.

"I am delighted that we have got this opportunity to have some more students back in the building before September, helping them to catch-up for exams next year.

"The teachers have done an excellent job with remote learning, but it’s not the same as having children in front of you in a classroom.

"In addition, pastoral and other support staff have maintained weekly contact with students and their parents or carers to make sure that they are alright.”

Year 10 student Abubaker Muhammed said this morning: “I walked in school and the teachers made me feel really welcome. I felt safe. 

"I have had a Maths and English lesson which has helped me to remember some of what I had forgotten.”

Sadia Akhtar added: “Coming back to school has been a big relief. 

"Working from home has been stressful. 

"However, now that I am back at school, I can ask for support when needed. 

"Re-opening school has been a step towards getting back on track.”

The school will be open to a quarter of Year 10 students each day, with a focus on Maths and English, with some additional support for Science, Design and Technology, Geography and History on Fridays.

Senior leaders are now awaiting guidance from the Government about what September will look like and any packages of support for students to catch-up.

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