Chipping Sodbury School has thanked parents, students and staff for their support after a successful return to school earlier this month.

Attendance has been high and the new year 7’s have settled in to the school nicely, making a fantastic start to their secondary school education.

There are a number of things in place at the school to help protect students and staff, with staggered drop off times, different zones for each year group and one way systems in place.

Headteacher Ms Katherine Turner said that whilst there had been numerous challenges posed by the return, she was really pleased with how this month had gone.

“This has not been easy and there are many challenges, some of which are still ahead of us,” she said.

“However, students have returned in a very positive manner and they are largely following our expectations regarding how we have organised a school in terms of zones, movement, staggered starts and end to the day, break and lunchtime.

“I am particularly grateful to you all for supporting the school in our new way of working.

“Our new Year 7 cohort have been excellent and have impressed us all with their positivity, politeness and commitment to their new school.

“We completed their induction at the start of term and it was great to meet so many parents/carers.

“Overall, school attendance has been particularly strong and student engagement has been largely very encouraging; staff have been pleased with a positive attitude demonstrated by our students. They are looking smart in their uniforms but please bear in mind there is still the offer for additional help should you need it to purchase school uniform.”

The school is also focussing on the mental wellbeing of students, with teachers working to put strategies in place to make sure there is continued support for the school community.

Face coverings are not compulsory at the school, but students are being asked to get in to the habit of wearing them whilst moving inside the school building to help further reduce the risks.

“Thank you for your continued support and whilst we will have many challenges ahead of us in the current climate, please be reassured we have a very strong and dedicated team at Chipping Sodbury School who are committed to our high standards.

“Finally, I wish to pay tribute to all staff have worked so hard in getting the school ready for the start of term, welcoming students back and ensuring the smooth running of the school day; this has not been an easy task but they have done brilliantly.”