Sunderland Echo readers praise schools and childcare services for providing crucial support for key workers

Education secretary Gavin Williamson said a week ago he couldn’t give a date for when English schools will reopen. But while last month’s closures have provided uncertainty, help has been close at hand.

Last week, we asked you, the Sunderland Echo readers, to tell us about any teachers or anyone providing childcare for key workers at this time.

Hundreds of people responded, sharing the fantastic work and initiatives which are taking place in their communities.

Here are some of the replies:

Heather Bolton: Argyle house school providing a fantastic service. Not only are key workers kids cared for they also have a full timetable of online lessons so all kids are having proper structured lessons and homework during lockdown. Well done Mr Johnson and all of the teachers.

Cheryl Williams: Mill Hill Primary School open since the lock down started. They're taking care of key worker kids and still putting together packs for kids at home. Well done everyone, keep up the good work and stay safe!

Rebecca Redpath: Hetton Primary School have been open since this all began. Whether staff are taking care of key worker children in school or are working hard from home to ensure families are safe and have all they require to get through this tricky time.

Well done Team Hetton!! Xxx

Claire Taylor: Wood Hillview infants and juniors are open and providing care for key worker children. All the staff in both schools are wonderful and are doing a brilliant job! Thank you

Jo Howarth: The teachers and teaching assistants of East Herrington Primary Academy are amazing!!! They have been open all through lockdown, even the Easter Holidays! They’re always an email away, continually supporting us. They have children of their own but are still here to support ours, THANK YOU to them xxx

Donna Burns: Fatfield academy are amazing been open since lockdown for key workers children all teachers supporting all there students with work online n phone calls also need amasin video for all students amasin school amazing staff n we all can't wait t see them all again ❤️❤️xxxxxx

Caroline Brown: Oxclose primary Academy have been open since day one of lockdown. All staff working so hard to help and support everyone. We've had regular texts and work set for the children to do at home and some is even for the individual child needs. The teachers are calling the children to speak to them and give then support emotionally and academically. Mrs Bolman and ALL the staff are doing a fantastic job in the difficult situation!!! Stay safe everyone x

Nicola Clark: Farringdon Primary has been outstanding with this pandemic and really understanding. They had both my children for several weeks until i could work from home. They did lots of fun things ie grew plants, made easter cards, did Joe wicks everyday to keep fit. They really do deserve some credit. My girls love there school from the headteacher to all the teachers including teaching Assistance and office staff and dinner staff there all amazing well done Farringdone yous have done yourself proud.

Michelle Clark: Tavistock Nursery has been open since day 1 for all Keyworker Children.Staff that are still working are doing an amazing Job providing lots of fun and exciting activities for the Children in these difficult times! They are worth their weight in Gold!

Laura Clarssen Clark: New Penshaw Academy and Burnside Academy staff have been working with Fatfield staff in Fatfield school building to provide childcare for any key workers children and vulnerable children at the three schools. Super proud of all our staff at Inspire Trust

Ruth Walton: Well done to all the staff at Bexhill Academy. Open since day one, open through Easter, no moans! Awesome attitudes, talking daily to parents, work packs, online learning, calls to pupils to check their well-being, stories shared. The best staff who go above and beyond- THANKYOU to you all- you’re incredible! Xx

Stephanie Anderson: Sunningdale Special School 💛💚 all staff have been working extremely hard to support all children who are are either still attending school or being home schooled by parents! Amazing as always Sunningdale Family! Stay safe xxxx

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