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The council is putting steps in place to support pupils to return to full time education after the Easter break.

National restrictions currently allow for all pupils to return to schools from 19th April.

With pupils having been out of school to different extents for a year, the council is putting help in place for anyone who needs support in adjusting to this change.

As well as covid-safe measures to support physical health, help will be available for looking after mental wellbeing. This includes for example:

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The Educational Psychology Service will be available to provide advice and guidance on mental health and wellbeing, training for school staff, and support for parents/carers and individual children and young people of all ages.

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Assessing mental health needs in schools

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Providing guidance and training as required in dealing with anxiety, loss, or other issues, through for example the council’s Nurture and Relationships Strategy

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The school counselling service is also now in place, taking referrals for children and young people from the age of 10 upwards.

Policy Lead for Education, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly, said:

“This year has brought a unique set of challenges for everyone particularly our children and young people. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of them for their continued hard work and resilience throughout this pandemic – you never cease to amaze me.  A special thanks also goes to all the parents and carers who have had to juggle work, caring responsibilities and take on the role of teachers. Last, but not least, I would like to congratulate our wonderful teaching staff who have worked ever so hard to provide support and continuity of learning to pupils within an ever changing landscape. I greatly appreciate and recognise the commitment and dedication of our teachers and support staff.

"Schools have been busy putting in place arrangements to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our children and young people and staff as we return to in-school learning. Following a difficult year, it is now time for a well-deserved break. I would like to wish you all a healthy and happy Easter.”