39 CORONAVIRUS AND ITS IMPACT ON DARTMOUTH Emily Simpson-Horne, HEAD OF SCHOOL AT DARTMOUTH ACADEMY. D


uring the early stages of lockdown Dartmouth Academy was used as a


hub. As well as taking their own children of key workers and vulnerable young people, they also accepted pupils from four local primary schools. But the numbers didn’t swell and Head of School Emily Simpson-Horne says it was definitely strange at first: “We only had about 45 children, so it was bizarre walking around with so many empty corridors and classrooms.” They tried to make it a calming and enjoyable experience for children, especially the younger ones, with fun signs and coloured arrows on the floor guiding them to their bubble. “We introduced songs and stories about the situation to make it less intimidating. The children have been great - they are very resilient. Our motto is ‘Be Your Best Self’ and they really have been. In fact, everyone; parents, pupils


and teachers have been strong, sensible and understanding - there has been a real sense that we are all in it together.” During lockdown, teachers


were on a rota system doing some work in school and some at home (creating online lesson plans for the students who are learning in


“it was bizarre walking around with so many empty corridors and classrooms”


their own houses): “Some have flourished at home, really getting into a rhythm, but it has been challenging for quite a few families. We have been flexible with our expectations and have also offered plenty of support through online lessons, meetings and mentoring sessions for parents. We also regularly contact families to find out how students are getting on.” They have been streaming


live assemblies which have been popular - during one, teachers held up inspirational quotes and messages for students to read. When schools opened more widely at the beginning of June the children from the other primaries returned to their own schools and the Academy welcomed back children in pre school, Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 (all in their own little bubbles). Year 10 pupils returned a little later. Emily says usually the Year 6 would have a transition period, but because that hasn’t been possible videos have been made to show them their new teachers and classrooms. Staff are looking forward to the new academic year, in whatever form that may take, and to when all students and teachers can be back in the classroom together. “We will continue to use some of the technology we have experienced during lockdown as it’s been very beneficial and has really promoted learning.” •


Pupils in their social distanced learning bubbles.


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