Pupils from Langley Hall Primary Academy in Station Road are still getting their daily lessons - despite the fact that their school is closed to everyone except the children of key workers.

Teachers from 28 classes across the school from Reception to Year 6 are delivering an online input session from the safety of their own homes each morning with a follow up session each afternoon.

One grateful parent has already sent a message on the school's intranet system thanking the school for 'this incredible effort you have put in to make the children feel happy and create that classroom atmosphere online'.

Executive head Sally Eaton, said: “Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive and I feel that a new respect and appreciation for what teachers do has emerged and that this has enhanced our relationship with parents. At this very difficult time we have offered continuity, hope and connection in a way that parents have really appreciated.”

Specialist staff at the school have provided online activities and practice videos featuring music, dance and outdoor learning.

The children have seen the school’s Shetland ponies at the school farm and learnt how to draw them, learnt dance routines, two part harmony choir pieces, had opportunities to paint and draw and learnt how to play a musical instrument or practice one that they already play - all in the safety of their own homes.

The school building has not been deserted though.

Teams of learning support assistants, caterers, drivers and ancillary staff have been on the front line caring for the children of key workers required to carry out work critical to the COVID-19 response effort.