As the new academic year begins, we have managed to grab five minutes with some busy members of the Outwood Family to discuss how they have found getting back into the classroom and being together again with students.

This time we sat down with Luke McNamara, Vice Principal at Outwood Primary Academy Park Hill. 

Outwood.com: Hi Luke! Thanks for finding time to speak with us during what is a very busy time for you I am sure, so I will get straight to it.

We are well into the new term now and children are back in school, so how did you feel in the lead up to the start of the new academic year?

LMc: “Hi, it’s nice to take part. To be honest, despite the uncertainty we faced I still felt extremely confident about returning. 

“We had a large number of children in the academy before summer when bubble sizes were smaller and we had the opportunity to refine our logistics and curriculum offer in preparation for September. 

“With the support of the Executive and director teams, we have been able to hit the ground running and maximise the learning for our children. The online platforms, virtual meetings and additional support have been avital part of this.”

That is a great start then. Think many found the few weeks at the end of last term, when some children returned, to be useful with regards to planning for September. Was there excitement then as well as confidence?

“Definitely and I was most excited about finding new and innovative ways to continue providing an exciting learning experience for our children. 

“We made a promise here that no barrier or obstacle could not be overcome and nothing would be shelved as a result of Covid-19 regulations. 

“Our assemblies are stronger than ever, we have had virtual democratic School Parliament election and we will continue in this way until we can be together again.”

That’s a very robust, positive and resilient approach! Positivity seems to be something which oozes out of your answers, so has being back in the academy been as good as you were hoping it would be? Have there been any highlights?

“It has gone even better than expected! 

“The children and parents have risen to the challenge of multiple entrance points, one way systems, class bubbles and playground zones. The resilience of the teachers and staff has been great to see as they have adapted to new protocols to ensure the academy community is safe and secure.

“As for a highlight, for me it is the wellbeing sessions that are delivered twice daily.

“These have allowed our staff to support the reintegration of our children after a difficult period. It has also enabled us to set the standards high for all to close the gap after a period of academy closure.”

Sounds like the dream start to the term, given the circumstances! What are your hopes or expectations for the rest of the term then?

“Quite simple really, my hopes are that we can move the children forward quickly both academically and in terms of their wellbeing.”

Well, we join you in that! Thank you for your time and speaking with us, Luke.