How schools in your area could look when pupils return to the classroom

A range of new measures are to be in place for when children return to school. Credit: ITV News Central

This is how schools in your area could look as they change the way they work when children return to class.

Staff at Sandon Primary in Stoke on Trent have made a number of changes to their classrooms, corridors and canteen in preparation for a return to school.

Alterations to primary schools across the Midlands come as the Government announced the possible re-opening of schools in England for pupils in Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 on June 1.

Gemma Wildigg, Sandon Primary Vice Principal, says other schools have been in touch asking for advice on how to implement similar measures.

A number of changes have been made at the school, including:

  • Pupils will be taught in groups of six

  • Children will attend school once a week, with home learning resources provided for when they are not in class

  • Desks in the classroom will remain two metres apart

  • Frequent hand washing will be encouraged

  • Surfaces and resources will be regularly sanitised

Many schools have been open throughout lockdown for children of key workers and children with additional needs.

Now, with more children returning, Gemma believes her fellow teachers at Sandon Primary aren't concerned about the increase in pupils.

An increase to the number of pupils in school and having to maintain social distancing measures are adding a "different kind of pressure" to teachers, according to Gemma.

Resistance from some teaching unions, ministers and parents for the reopening of schools across England remains.

Over 370,000 people have signed a petition asking the government not to send children back to school.

Recently, ITV News Central viewers also responded to a survey on our Facebook page.

In the unscientific poll, out of 8 and a half thousand responses, nearly 6 and a half thousand said they'd be uncomfortable sending their children back to school in June.

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson stands firm on schools in England reopening on June 1 as it is based on the "best scientific advice".

Mr Williamson sought to reassure parents worried about children returning to school that the Government’s proposals are based on the "best scientific advice with children at the very heart of everything we do".

His comments come as teaching unions and ministers have been told to "stop squabbling" and work together to help reopen schools in England.

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