Schools across County Durham are finding new ways for students to stay connected throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Despite the many challenges presented by the pandemic, school staff are working hard to ensure pupils aren’t negatively affected.
At Ox Close Primary in Spennymoor, its weekly whole school assembly now takes place virtually, allowing every class to join together in celebrating the achievements of each week.
Positive mental health is also being promoted during these continued challenging times, with each classroom bubble having created their own ‘Tell Me Tree’.
Through the trees, which students themselves have helped to create, students are encouraged to share their worries, cares, dreams or nightmares and talk about their feelings.
Anna Bowden, Head of School, said: “It was really important to us that we thought of ways to continue bringing the children together and making them feel as though they were still part of a bigger community, despite the challenges of coronavirus restrictions.
“I’m so pleased we thought of the virtual celebration assembly, which we hold every Friday. The children really love coming together for it; one little boy told me it was the highlight of his week and it is wonderful to see every class together – even if it is just on screen for now.
“We understand that this year has been difficult for everyone but we hope that through our virtual assemblies and the ‘Tell Me Trees’ that we have in each classroom, we can help our pupils look for new ways of solving problems and communicating, whatever challenge they may face.”
Meanwhile, a recent ‘Harvest Hearts’ activity has also seen them connect with those outside of their school, reaching out to the wider community.
Each year group was allocated a worthy cause in the initiative, with children then sending hearts which featured either a picture or message to spread love, kindness and friendship.
Some of the recipients included the children’s Treetops ward at the University Hospital of North Durham and the children’s ward at the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, which has since thanked pupils for their fantastic efforts of kindness.
Daniel Harrison, Executive Headteacher at Ox Close Primary, said: “I am determined that we transmit the positivity and energy from our children and share that with the wider community. These are fantastic experiences and activities for the children to be involved with and will help them to develop strong values as young people.”
Cllr Olwyn Gunn, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “All of our school staff have truly risen to the challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic and I’m very grateful for all they are doing to care of our young people.
“It’s so important that they are encouraged to stay connected and talk to each other, despite some of the restrictions that have been imposed. They are promoting positive mental health and wellbeing and resilience for the future, which will undoubtedly support students as they continue to grow.
“I also think it’s wonderful to reach out to the wider community, helping others to feel more positive and cared for. Pupils should feel very proud that their kindness and friendship is helping to bring cheer to someone else’s day.”
