Habs Girls School in Elstree set to welcome back all pupils

Currently, schools in England remain closed to pupils except those in nursery, reception, year 1 and year 6, or if they are a vulnerable child or a child of a key worker.

But making use of its expansive grounds, Haberdashers' Aske's School for Girls', in Elstree, has adopted a phased approach, which started on June 22, with the aim of bringing back Years 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Its students will also meet with tutors and peers before term ends.

In line with current government advice, which encourages those schools with the capacity and space to bring more children back into school, Habs Girls’ says it has been working hard to create a safe learning environment for its students.

Having already welcomed back around 90 per cent of its reception, Year 1 and 6 pupils on June 1, the school has adapted its facilities to accommodate social distancing measures.

From individual learning bubbles, where every child has their own desk and area, to designated outdoor areas and toilet facilities for selected year groups, the school is making the most of the space available.

Sarah Wright, head of junior school at Habs Girls’, said: "It has been wonderful to have the children back again, enjoying learning in classrooms, socialising outside on the field and in the playground.

"We’ve ensured that the bubbles still allow children to interact with their friends and we’re making the most of our outdoor space by teaching a number of lessons outside."

Rose Hardy, headmistress at Habs Girls, added: “What has been important in welcoming our students back to school life, is weeks of planning for this very moment.

"We’ve kept communication with students open and regular, we’ve even produced videos and booklets for them ahead of time so that they know what school will look like when they return, what they can expect to see and the changes that have been made.

"The priority right now is the safety and happiness of our staff and students."