KEYWORKERS have praised two local schools for staying open despite their children being the only pupils there.

Janice Deane has thanked Whittington Primary school and Nunnery Wood High school for stepping in and looking after her three children while her and her husband Dan are carrying out essential work.

The pharmacist, said: “Both me and my husband are key workers and have both had to continue working.

“Not only did both schools say it was no problem to send the girls in, but when I finished my shift at the hospital and went to pick them all up, I found out that my eldest had been the only pupil at the high school and my two youngest had been the only pupils at the primary school.

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“The schools not only made it possible for me and my husband to go to work, but they made sure my girls had a great day too.

“I am so thankful to them and feel quite emotional about the care that they have given and how they have really gone above and beyond for my girls.

Gary Richards headteacher of Whittington Church of England Primary School said: “Staff have continued to support our school community.

“We have looked after the children of key workers since the lock down began and will continue to offer this support.

“Alongside this, teachers are setting work every school day, as well as communicating directly with pupils and parents.

“Each day our cleaners disinfect the school and the office staff are busy setting the school budget and preparing for the intake of new students which will (hopefully) happen in September.

“It has been a real team effort and I am proud to be part of such a dedicated staff."

Mrs Deane continued: "On Friday, a teacher at the high school brought in ingredients from home so that they could spend the day making hot cross buns with Lily.

"The primary school brought in bulbs so Ruby and Holly spent the day digging, planting and doing some painting.

"Yesterday, Lily was in with the headteacher and deputy headteacher of the high school. They brought in the ingredients for the to make Easter biscuits. Ruby and Holly spent the day at the primary school making rainbows for us to put in our windows at home.

"Both schools have always been great, but I can't believe the support they've given us and the fact that they made sure all of my girls still had a great Easter."

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Head of Nunnery Wood, Steve Powell, said: “School staff have been keen to play their part in helping NHS staff and others.

"During “term” time we’ve had up to 30 students in - but it’s been quieter over Easter. We’ve been mindful that this would have been holiday time for students and so staff have been doing some fun and creative activities - baking, painting.

"We really appreciate the lovely comments from Mrs Dean and others but it’s been no hardship to look after these great students.”

Has a school near you gone above and beyond for your children?

Let us know by getting in touch with reporter Jemma Bufton