It’s nearly time to go back to school!
After such a long time away from school, it’s really important for our children to get back into the classroom.
The government has said children and young people in all year groups should return to school full-time from the beginning of the autumn term.
Your school or early years setting will have been in contact with you before the start of term to explain the new arrangements that they have put in place.
If you have any specific concerns about your child, please contact your school or early years setting directly.
From the start of term on Thursday 3 September schools will have staff available for you to speak to.
Normal routines
The chair of the council’s Children, Young People and Skills committee, Councillor Hannah Clare, said: “Going back to school is vital. And it’s not just because learning is so important.
It’s also about our children’s mental health and wellbeing – seeing friends, getting back to normal routines and having the chance to build their futures.
“We’re fortunate in Brighton & Hove that the number of cases has generally been lower than the national average.
“The importance of continuing physical distancing and following hygiene advice cannot be underestimated in helping prevent the spread of Covid-19.”
Our schools, colleges, nurseries and childminders have put in place a range of protective measures to help reduce the risks posed by Coronavirus.
Support is available
We know some parents and children have concerns about going back to school. Some children may be feeling anxious.
Others, including people from high-risk groups, may be worried about Coronavirus issues.
To find out more about high-risk groups, please visit the NHS website
If you are worried about your child’s mental health and wellbeing, we recommend you visit the YMCA Downslink Group's online ‘e-wellbeing’ resource.
They have produced some really good information about going back to school.
The council’s Schools Wellbeing Service has a consultation line for parents and carers who may be concerned about emotional wellbeing and mental health issues.
If you would like to speak to a mental health worker, please email an enquiry in the first instance to: SWSConsultationLine@brighton-hove.gov.uk
If you have particular worries or concerns around special educational needs (SEN) issues, please speak to your school SENCo in the first instance.
Find more information about the support available for children who have SEND.
The Brighton & Hove Inclusion Support Service (BHISS) is running an open email for parents and carers. If you are concerned about your child’s development and emotional wellbeing, please email an enquiry to: BHISS@Brighton-hove.gov.uk.