Mansfield school's staff ‘risking their own lives’ to support NHS key workers during coronavirus crisis

High Oakam Primary School stayed open to support key workers in their efforts to protect and save lives during the Covid 19 outbreak.

The Nottingham Road school said many of its parents were playing a “critical role” in keeping the country running and that it had been a “pleasure to support them.”

Headteacher Stephanie Astle said: “I have been so proud of my staff who are putting their lives at risk to look after these children.

“The whole school community have pulled together and our families have been amazingly supportive.

“Our leaders, teachers, teaching assistants, cleaners, office staff, kitchen staff, middays and site manager all played their part and together with the wonderful Beverley Alvey and staff at Tree House, we’ve been able to offer an extended provision of childcare at a difficult time.

“Our teachers Mrs Kirstie Fidler, Mrs Lisa Baker, Mrs Claire Smith and Mrs Michelle Pollard worked with our children to make a banner to support our wonderful NHS staff.”

The banner has been widely shared on Twitter, prompting many comments including one from Mansfield MP Ben Bradley who said: “fabulous,” and Nottinghamshire County Council added “Wow what an amazing team of teachers!

“Doing their part in keeping schools running for children of key workers to help make sure that critical front line NHS staff can continue doing their jobs. Amazing banner thanking the NHS - but thanks to YOU too!”

NHS worker and parent Hayley Hickman posted: “How lovely, I shall drive this way to work every morning, so that I go in to work with a smile on my face. Thank you.”

Stephanie Astle also said the staff had put “immense efforts” into the school’s home learning activities.

“We have had teachers recording themselves doing a Zumba class at home for the children to follow, filming themselves playing the guitar and singing songs for our younger children to sing along to and reading stories to keep children entertained - there is even a link to me reading a story with my dog!”