CHILDREN returned to school on Monday, March 8, after more than two months of home schooling during the Covid-19 lockdown.

There was a phased return for students at the King Alfred School, Highbridge, allowing for testing to take place, while primary schools across the area also opened their doors.

Nathan Jenkins, King Alfred School Academy's principal, said: "I'm so thrilled to see our students and staff arriving back to school today and settling straight in.

"The resilience of our young people and the dedication of our staff never ceases to amaze me."

King Alfred students in Years 7, 10, 11, 12 and 13 returned to school on Monday, with the latter four year groups having been invited in to receive a lateral flow test last week.

Year 8 pupils followed on Tuesday (March 9) and Year 9 students yesterday (March 10).

Lateral flow testing is taking place for all students for whom the school has received consent, and they will receive a total of three tests in school over the next three weeks, after which they will be issued with home test kits.

The school is also "strongly advising" all students and staff to wear face coverings at all times, aside from when doing PE or when eating, and they will be encouraged to sanitise their hands regularly.

Students will remain in teaching blocks and year group bubbles, as before Christmas, and will continue to have split lunch times and remain in zones at social times, to ensure that they do not cross bubbles.

Students or parents with further questions are encouraged to email info@tkasa.org.uk.