NHS Test & Trace and The Law
The law on protecting personally identifiable information, known as the General Data Protection Regulation (UK-GDPR), allows Public Health England to use the personal information collected by NHS
Test and Trace
The section of the UK-GDPR that applies is:
Article 6(1)(e) ‘processing is necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller’
As information about health is a special category of personal information, a further section of the UK-GDPR applies:
Article 9(2)(i) ‘processing is necessary for reasons of public interest in the area of public health, such as protecting against serious cross-border threats to health or ensuring high standards of quality and safety of healthcare’
Public Health England also has special permission from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to use personally identifiable information without people’s consent where this is in the public interest. This is known as ‘Section 251’ approval and includes the use of the information collected by NHS Test and Trace to help protect the public from coronavirus. The part of the law that applies here is Section 251 of the National Health Service Act 2006 and the associated Health Service (Control of Patient Information) Regulations 2002.
The Ellis Whole School Full Risk Assessment March 2022
BMBC Full Covid-19 Risk Assessment March 2022
BMBC Full Opening of Schools Covid-19 Risk Assessment v18 6 January 2022
BMBC Full Opening of Schools Covid-19 Risk Assessment v17 4 January 2022
BMBC Full Opening of Schools December 2021 Covid-19 Risk Assessment v16
The Ellis C of E Primary Covid-19 Outbreak Management Plan Sept 2021
The Ellis Covid-19 Risk Assessment Sept 2021 UPDATE
The Ellis Covid-19 Risk Assessment Sept 2021
BMBC Full Opening of Schools Sept 2021 Covid-19 Risk Assessment UPDATE
BMBC Full Opening of Schools Sept 2021 Covid-19 Risk Assessment v13
The Ellis Covid 19 Risk Assessment June 2021
BMBC Full Opening of Schools March 2021 Covid-19 Risk Assessment v11 23032021
The Ellis Return to School Strategy Plan 8.3.21
The Ellis Covid Q and A March 2021 For Parents
The Ellis Covid 19 Risk Assessment Feb 2021
BMBC Full Opening of Schools March 2021 Covid-19 Risk Assessment v10 23022021
The Ellis Covid-19 Risk Assessment Jan 2021
Risk Assessment for Staff Rapid Testing
The Ellis Remote Learning Policy Dec 20-Dec 22
Barnsley Schools’ Alliance Remote Education Principles Jan 2021
BMBC Schools Lockdown Partial Opening Covid-19 Risk Assessment v1 Jan 2021
BMBC Full Opening of Schools Sept 2020 Covid-19 Risk Assessment v8 Updated Jan 21
Covid Catch-Up Premium Plan – September 2020 – The Ellis
The Ellis Covid-19 Risk Assessment Nov 2020
BMBC Covid-19 Risk Assessment full opening of schools Nov 20
The Ellis Covid-19 Risk Assessment Sep 2020
BMBC Covid-19 Risk Assessment Full Opening of Schools Sept 2020
The Ellis Covid-19 Risk Assessment June 2020
Barnsley Council – School Covid-19 Risk Assessment
Remote Learning Policy Apr21-Apr23
September 2020
Dear parents
I hope this information reaches you well rested and in good health!
We are greatly looking forward to seeing you and as I am sure you are all aware CV-19 is still very much part of our daily life and we therefore have to continue to take great precautions to stay as safe as possible.
With our September start fast approaching, Im sure that a number of parents may have questions about how we are approaching things at school. We have drawn together a Q&A format that we thought may be useful for parents. We hope we have covered the main points, though there may be more questions that follow. It is important to note that this is our starting point and that things may change over (or even before!?) the first few weeks. There will be adjustments and alterations in response to situations changing, finding better (or safer) ways of doing things and simply to address mistakes or unforeseen issues.
We will communicate these as swiftly as possible when they occur.
The school has placed a full version of our risk assessment on the school website.
SOME REMINDERS FIRST
We will be operating school similarly to Rainbow school to enable everyone to be as safe as possible.
The Government has recognised that younger children cannot socially distance but are recommending we continue to use the POD/Bubble system in school.
We have made the decision to continue to have sister classes together as they share the cloakroom and toilets, this will enable us to continue to have separate outdoor areas for each POD. Each class will be separate inside their classrooms for learning. This year each class is the name of an author to celebrate our love of books and reading at The Ellis.
F1 Nursery PINK POD
F2 Delightful Donaldsons RED POD
Y1 Wise Woollvins ORANGE POD
Y2 Perfect Potters ORANGE POD
Y3 Fantastic Fletchers YELLOW POD
Y4 Wonderful Walliams YELLOW POD
Y5 Creative Cowells GREEN POD
Y6 Determined Dahls GREEN POD
We will continue with our one way system around school and parents will say goodbye at the drop-off gates. There will be a member of staff on the main gate and the gate near F2 to support the children saying goodbye and remind everyone of the one way system.
F1, F2, Y1 and Y2 enter school from School Street and drop off at the red gate near F2. F1 go to the Nursery gate. All parents leave following the Foundation field and walking up to the main gate.
If you need to drop a KS2 child off second you leave them in the drive area to walk around the Y5/Y6 side of school and leave via the main gate.
If you are just dropping off a KS2 child please leave at the main gate, when there is a staff member there.
This is a great opportunity for everyone to start the park and walk for 5 minutes scheme. It enables everyone to come to school for their allocated time and will ease congestion and therefore help the safety of everyone at drop off and collecting time.
No cars are allowed to drive into school or turn near the main gate during drop off and pick up times.
BREAKFAST CLUB
Please only book into breakfast club if it is absolutely essential as we are trying to reduce numbers as much as possible. Initially breakfast club will be in the hall and we will have a separate area in the hall for each pod. We will use the front door for breakfast club starting at 8am. To help us organise can you please let us know what time you will be arriving.
AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS
We will not have any clubs after school during Autumn 1 and we will review for Autumn 2, after October half term.
To keep school as safe as possible for all our families and staff we all need to respect the social distancing rules that have been made by the Government in and out of school.
Your cooperation and support is, as always, appreciated in this matter.
Please do not hesitate to make contact if you have further questions that need answering before your return on the 2nd September.
Keep safe
Mrs Hurding (Mrs H)
Q and A for the September return to school.
What happens when children arrive at school?
Children will enter school through their designated entry point. Please try to arrive punctually and on time (not early!). Members of staff will be around to monitor entry/exit points. Children should move straight to their designated drop-off/collection points where a member of staff will be meeting them at the appropriate time. Where possible, we wish for children to do this independently to minimize persons entering the site. Initially, we appreciate some of our youngest children may need additional support/reassurance from parents which we understand is necessary. However, please note we ask that children only be accompanied when it is absolutely necessary. Please can we ask that only one adult drops off to decrease the amount of adults in school. We are aware that many children will need support to settle back into school and to get used to the new routines. We will support and nurture all our wonderful children back into school. We may need to hold a child to support their transition away from their carer.
Times and meeting points: | Drop off | Collect | Waiting |
Pink Pod
Nursery |
8.45am
|
11.45am
3.30pm |
Wait at Nursery red gate. Socially distancing along the Foundation field |
Red Pod
Foundation 2 |
8.55am
|
3.10pm | Wait at the red F2 gate. Socially distancing along the path parallel to Rainbow garden |
Orange Pod
|
Y1 8.50am Y2 8.40am |
Y1 3.15pm Y2 3.05pm |
Wait at the red F2 gate. Socially distancing along the path parallel to Rainbow garden |
Yellow Pod
|
Y3 8.50am
Y4 8.40am |
Y3 3.15pm
Y4 3.05pm |
Wait at the main gate
From Y4 (as long as we know) children can leave school independently |
Green Pod
|
Y5/6 8.45am | Y5/6 3.10am | Wait at the main gate
Ideally encourage to leave independently |
How can I speak with school staff if there is a need?
Due to the current and ongoing situation, we are asking parents to only enter the site when absolutely necessary, eg drop off and collection times, unless your child walks home or usually meets you outside. Entrance into school for parents is only by invite from staff or by prior arrangement. If you need to speak specifically with a member of staff, we ask that you make contact via calling the school office or through your class teachers email. If required, appointments may be made to speak directly with a class teacher through these methods. At this time, parents are not welcomed into classrooms routinely. We will be available to support so please make an appointment or phone Mrs Hurding and /or Mrs Gay who are available to talk during school hours.
I can see that the children have staggered starts, but what about playtimes?
The importance of physical activity and regular breaks is important for both health and social reasons. Children will have breaks with their own classmates and their pod, this is facilitated by having designated play areas. We will continue to have learning opportunities outside too.
What about dinnertime?
Lunchtime will be staggered and adjusted for most year groups. We are realistic in that we believe it isnt possible to feed our children in the usual way. Our youngest children often take the longest to eat their lunches and need the most support. For this reason, they will eat their lunches in the main hall, utilizing the larger space for distancing. In order to maintain the integrity of the PODS, other children will be required to eat their lunches in either the classroom or picnic tables/ in their PODS outdoor area.
So are children having usual school dinners and hot meals?
The school has worked with the meal provider to offer a range of meals. There is some variation to the menu, however, this allows the meals to be delivered and eaten safely in areas other than the school hall. Initially, these will be fully disposable (trays/plastic knives/forks, etc) to avoid unnecessary movement, cleaning and opportunities for viral transmission.
How would I order these meals?
These are ordered the same way as before, paid electronically via Parentpay.
My child has packed lunches- what does this mean for them?
Children can use their usual lunchboxes, etc. A fully disposable packed lunch would still be our preference, as it limits what comes into school, however, it if fine to bring in a sandwich box/bag if it is washed and taken home every day.
What about drinks in school?
It is important that all children have readily available drinks. All supplies in school are mains fed and safe to drink. It is for this reason that we will provide every child with their own school water bottle, which will be cleaned at the end of the day and kept in school so children dont need to bring a water bottle from home.
How will you ensure that good hand hygiene is achieved?
Staff will routinely and regularly ask your child to wash their hands at key transition points in the day. Examples will include at the start/end of the day, after breaks or after using shared materials and resources.
How well set up is the school to promote hand hygiene?
Each classroom has hand washing points, these all have readily available soaps and paper towels. In addition to this, all rooms and most entry/exit points will have hand sanitizer. Children will receive regular opportunities and reminders to use them.
What about respiratory hygiene?
Staff will remind children about promoting good standards of respiratory hygiene. This will be in line with current guidance from the government, for example catch it, bin it, kill it for coughs and sneezes. Alongside hand hygiene, children will be reminded about touching mouths and faces and the inevitable nose picking!
What about toilets?
The theory of using bubbles (PODS) is that the children will operate as if they are in an extended family/household. Just like you wouldnt necessarily sanitise a toilet at home after each use, we will be doing the same. Children within pods have allocated toilets for their use, just like a home uses a shared toilet for a limited number of people, we will be doing the same. The priority here is good hand hygiene, as it quite rightly, always should have been!
The Lunchtime supervisors will be cleaning the toilets at lunchtime.
How will the school be maintaining appropriate standards of cleanliness?
The school has worked with the cleaning service provider to ensure that all recommended measures are in place. At the end of each day, all areas in school will receive enhanced cleaning. We have employed another cleaner to ensure each pod has its own cleaner. It is for this reason that classrooms have had some of the soft furnishing and additional resources stored so that all surfaces and touch-points can be efficiently and effectively cleaned. In addition to this, all classrooms have a small kit of cleaning products for additional and intermittent use. This includes surface cleaners and wipes for use on frequently used surfaces, shared resources, etc. Again, the priority here is good hand and respiratory hygiene.
How will classrooms be organised?
We have always had a range of seating options in place at school which are used to support learning. The current guidance from the DfE is that where possible children should not be sat in facing groups. Children will be sat side by side generally facing the front where possible. However, we will be teaching children in groups and the younger children will be available to access provision as this is a vital part of their learning.
Will my child be maintaining social distancing?
The DfE guidance that we have received states that children, and especially the youngest children, cannot socially distance and that for younger children the emphasis will be on separating groups and consistent groups reduce the risk of transmission by limiting the number of pupils and staff in contact with each other to only those within the group. However, we also have in the same guidance that for children old enough, they should also be supported to maintain distance and not touch staff where possible. We will be encouraging this by reminding children to attempt to maintain distance where possible and minimising physical contact between themselves, their peers and adults. Please support us with this by reminding children to socially distance as much as possible.
Will school be monitoring temperatures?
No. The latest guidance from DfE states that this is now considered an unreliable method of screening. We have invested in an infrared thermometer which we will use if staff or children are feeling ill.
What happens if my child has an accident or needs first aid?
The school has appropriate supplies of PPE and staff trained to administer first aid. Common sense and moral duty would dictate that the safety of a child with a serious injury requiring immediate first aid would duly receive it. Alternately, should an older child have a minor graze or scrape, the most sensible way to deal with this may be them being supported in cleaning themselves up. We may not
be in a position to give your child the hug or cuddle they need in a minor instance such as this, but we will do all we can to give them the reassurance and positive regard we can. In other instances of accidents or illness (eg vomiting, etc) staff have appropriate PPE to deal with the situation. If we have needed to cuddle your child to support their well-being we will let you know. As nurturers we will hug your child if it is needed.
Will my child need PPE?
PPE will only be needed in specific circumstances for staff, eg, supporting a child with medical needs or if a child becomes unwell and develops symptoms and a distance of 2m cannot be maintained by the adult supporting the child. We are instructed that children should not wear masks in school and whilst they may be wearing them as a result of using public transport or similar reasons, they should be removed prior to entering the school. If staff or parents need to or want to wear masks you are welcome to. The use of masks has greatly increased and is often now essential, since we were last all together, back in mid- July.
What about PE?
Physical activity and PE is an important part of the school curriculum. Children will be encouraged to be active during breaks and lunchtime and participate in games and play with minimised/no physical contact. PE lessons will be undertaken and these will be outdoor wherever possible/appropriate. The delivery of these may require the use of shared resources (eg balls, bats, etc) which will be quarantined or cleaned after use (again hand washing is the key!) and physical contact minimised or eliminated where appropriate.
What does my child need for school?
Initially we are asking that children only attend school with what is necessary or essential. This should be a coat/jacket or similar (if weather dictates it), a packed lunch (including a lunchbox if thats your choice) if not having a school meal. Children may or may not need a bag to carry all these, again we ask for your support in defining what is and isnt really essential. Please avoid additional stationery, toys, gifts(!) and unnecessary clothing. All items brought in for school (eg lunch boxes, coats, etc) should return home at the end of the day for cleaning if necessary. Book bags are now allowed and books can now come to and from school (phew!).
What about PE kits?
We will have PE kits back in school, but please be mindful that the children will not always change. PE is encouraged to be outside and we will limit the need to change as much as possible.
Your childs every day shoe should ideally be a trainer as we encourage time outdoors. Please try and have the trainers as plain as possible to fit in with the school uniform.
We will continue to provide lots of opportunities to learn outside so please ensure all children have the clothes appropriate for the days weather and have wellies in school too.
PLIMSOLLS
Will be needed to change into inside, when outdoor shoes are dirty.
Are children wearing uniform ?
Yes, the DfE have stated that this is now advised. We are asking children to attend in their usual uniform. Current guidance requires that it is not necessary to employ any special methods of cleaning uniform other than those you would usually use with regular washing to ensure good standards of hygiene. However, where possible we would recommend clean clothes every day, please let us know if you need support with this, we have been donated some good quality second hand sweatshirts.
What about homework and reading books?
By minimising other potential sources of transmission between home and school, we can be more confident in controlling others. Teachers will be asked to follow their usual homework systems from September and manage this by having a system in place for receiving (eg an in-tray or similar) and distributing homework (again this is mitigated by good hand hygiene in staff as well as children). Reading books can be selected and used.
Have behaviour expectations been revised?
We always expect our children to be kind, thoughtful and respectful. At this time some amendments have been made with specific reference to include deliberate spitting and coughing, refusing to follow instruction about physical contact and distancing. Deliberate acts will be taken seriously, however, we do appreciate that with young children they can forget at times. There will be regular reminders by staff to follow the guidelines.
How will my child receive additional support and help when needed?
Staff at school have always routinely worked closely with children, for example on a 1:1 basis when they are finding something particularly difficult. In many cases this can still be done at arms length, though at times it may be more difficult and we need to support our children to learn. Children with specific needs or working with EHCPs will have their needs assessed and addressed in line with current guidance. We want to keep our children and staff safe and enable learning to take place.
During the summer term, attendance regulations were relaxed and it wasnt compulsory to attend. Does my child now have to attend school?
The DfE has instructed that school attendance will be mandatory again from the beginning of the autumn term. This means from that point, the usual rules on school attendance will apply, including: parents duty to secure that their child attends regularly at school where the child is a registered pupil at school and they are of compulsory school age;
We are also instructed that shielding advice for all adults and children will pause on 1 August, subject to a continued decline in the rates of community transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19). This means that even the small number of pupils who will remain on the shielded patient list can also return to school, as can those who have family members who are shielding. We also know our community and that some of our children may be anxious about returning to school for a variety of complicating factors. We welcome the opportunity to discuss, reassure and support children in this situation. Please contact school from 1st September via the phone or email.
OKWhy is all this important?
The measures outlined above, such as bubbles/Pods, staggered starts and hygiene requirements have been put in place (to follow the guidance!) because it is really important that we do what we can to help keep everyone safe, including children, staff, parents and the wider community. By operating in this way we can minimize the risk and should anyone within the school become ill, develop symptoms or test positive for COVID19 the school can be really clear on the necessary steps which are outlined in the next question.
What happens if my child, myself or someone else shows symptoms?
Staff members and parents/carers understand that they will need to be ready and willing to:
Anyone who displays symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) can and should get a test. Tests can be booked online through the NHS testing and tracing for coronavirus website, or ordered by telephone via NHS 119 for those without access to the internet.
The government will ensure that it is as easy as possible to get a test through a wide range of routes that are locally accessible, fast and convenient. By the autumn term, we will be provided with a small number of home testing kits that we can give directly to parents/carers collecting a child who has developed symptoms at school, or staff who have developed symptoms at school, where we think providing one will significantly increase the likelihood of individuals getting tested.
We ask parents and staff to inform us immediately of the results of a test:
Other members of their household should continue self-isolating for the full 14 days.
What will the school need to do if someone becomes ill, shows symptoms or receives a positive test result?
We must take swift action when we become aware that someone who has attended has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19). We will contact the local health protection team. This team will also contact us directly if they become aware that someone who has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) attended the school as identified by NHS Test and Trace. The health protection team will carry out a rapid risk assessment to confirm who has been in close contact with the person during the period that they were infectious, and ensure they are asked to self-isolate. The health protection team will work with us in this situation to guide us through the actions we need to take. Based on the advice from the health protection team, we must send home those people who have been in close contact with the person who has tested positive, advising them to self-isolate for 14 days since they were last in close contact with that person when they were infectious. Close contact means:
The health protection team will provide definitive advice on who must be sent home.
A quick reference version of what to do if a situation arises: The main symptoms of coronavirus are:
Most people with coronavirus have at least 1 of these symptoms.
What to do if you have symptoms
get your result.
The table below covers the vast majority of situations for children, should your situation not be covered, please contact school to discuss.
What if͙?
|
What to do?
|
Return to school when͙?
|
My child has covid
symptoms. |
Do not come to school Update school daily Self isolate Get a test Inform school immediately about test result |
the test comes back negative. |
my child tests positive
for covid. |
Do not come to school Update school daily Self-isolate for at least 10 days Inform school immediately about test result |
they feel better after 10 days isolation. Symptoms can last for several weeks once the infection has gone, but they can return after 10 days if they feel well. |
somebody in my
household has covid symptoms. |
Do not come to school Update school daily Self isolate Household member to get a test Inform school immediately about test result
|
the household member test is
negative. |
somebody in my
household has tested positive for covid.
|
Do not come to school
Update school daily Self isolate for 14 days
|
the child has completed 14 days
isolation. |
NHS test and trace have identified my child as a close contact of somebody with symptoms or confirmed covid. |
Do not come to school
Update school daily Self isolate for 14 days |
the child has completed 14 days
isolation. |
we/my child has
travelled and has to self isolate as part of a period of quarantine. |
Do not take unauthorised leave in term time Consider quarantine requirements (and possibility of quarantine) and FCO advice when booking travel Returning from a destination where quarantine is needed Do not come to school Update school daily Self isolate for 14 days
|
the child has completed 14 days
isolation and quarantine period complete.
|
we have received
medical advice that my child must resume shielding. |
Do not come to school
Contact school Shield until you are informed that restrictions are lifted and shielding is paused again. |
school inform you that restrictions
have been lifted and your child can return again. |
September 2020
Dear parents and carers,
I wanted to get in touch to reassure you of the plans we have in place to keep your children safe when they return in September. Below is information received from Barnsley Council.
All year groups will return to school full-time from the beginning of the autumn term. Weve been working hard to minimise the risks of Coronavirus (COVID-19) by making sure that we have control measures in place in line with the Government guidance.
The school has undertaken a thorough risk assessment which includes:
We all have a role to play in keeping our school and community safe
Do not send your child to school if:
You should book a free Coronavirus (COVID-19) test and self-isolate in line with the guidance below and at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.
The same guidance applies to school staff.
The rest of this message includes information on what is happening across Barnsley and gives you advice on how to protect you and your family from Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Were looking forward to welcoming all children back in September.
Kind regards
Mrs Hurding
How you protect yourself and your family
Barnsley council continue to monitor the situation across the borough, working closely with partners and Public Health England, adapting their approach as required.
They know that some of the positive cases in the borough are from people socialising together. While people have missed spending time with friends and family, its important to remember these two rules:
Remember, in both of these situations, you still must social distance and wash your hands regularly. You should avoid touching anything unnecessarily, but anything you do touch should be cleaned. This includes walls, doors, door handles, the toilet, the sink and taps.
Symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The most common symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are recent onset of:
Getting a test for Coronavirus (COVID-19)
If youre concerned in any way, or you have even mild symptoms of Coronavirus (COVID-19), you can get a free swab test that takes less than a minute.
In Barnsley, we have a local testing site on the Courthouse car park in the town centre. We also have a mobile testing unit that will move around the borough.
The Mobile Testing Unit will be in Wombwell on Station Road car park (behind the library), from Friday 21 to Tuesday 25 August and at Mapplewell and Staincross Village Hall, Darton Lane, Mapplewell from Wednesday 26 to Sunday 30 August.
Book your test at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119, and you can expect your result the next day.
When should you self-isolate?
Self-isolate immediately for at least 10 days if:
Self-isolate immediately for at least 14 days if:
The 14-day period starts from the day when the first person in the house became ill.
How to self-isolate reduce the spread of the virus and dont be a contact
You must not leave your home if you’re self-isolating.
Don’t
For more information visit www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
Please follow our Facebook page and see our Teachers with a video message for their new class in September…
https://www.facebook.com/pg/TheEllisCESchool/videos/?ref=page_internal
Lockdown Poems by The Ellis children, staff and families
Im supposed to be at school today By Lucy
Im supposed to be at school today
But mum says I cant go
Its our turn on the bikes, I said
But she hugged me and said no
I get to play at home today
And sit and watch TV
Dads been on his phone all day
But it doesnt bother me
Mum made us ring Gran today
And I said that I had grown
I told them both my favourite joke
And gran laughed loud down the phone
No ones playing on my street today
And Im getting bored of TV
I got a bit upset and sad
Then mum sat me on her knee
She said it all feels a little strange today
Not just for you, but for me
It wont be like this forever my love
Just you wait and see
Dad came off his computer today
And helped me read my book
Both our tummies started rumbling
So then he taught me how to cook
I played out in the yard today
And found some bugs within the grass
My neighbour saw me through her window
And waved at me through the glass
Guess what? I went back to school today
And all my friends came back too
My classroom looked exactly the same
And my teacher said I missed you
Gran came round for tea today
And said something to me
You must remember this time my dear
Cause theyll teach this in history
The time we spring cleaned the world
The world it got so busy
There were people all around
They left their germs behind them
In the air and on the ground
These germs grew bigger and stronger
They wanted to come and stay
They didnt want to hurt anyone
They just really wanted to play
Sometimes they tried to hold your hand
Or tickled your throat or your nose
They could make you cough and sneeze
And make your face as red as a rose
And so these germs took over
They started to make people ill
And with every cough we coughed
More and more germs would spill
All the queens and kings had a meeting
Its time to clean the world up, they said
And so they had to close lots of fun stuff
Just so these germs couldnt spread
We couldnt go to cinemas
Or restaurants for our tea
There was no football or parties
The world got as quiet as can be
The kids stopped going to school
The mums and dads went to work less
Then a great, big, giant scrubbing brush
Cleaned the sky and the sea and the mess
Dads started teaching the sums
Big brothers played with us more
Mums were in charge of homework
And we read and played jigsaws galore
The whole world was washing their hands
And building super toilet roll forts
Outside was quiet and peaceful
Now home was the place for all sports
So we played in the world that was home
And our days filled up with fun and love
And the germs they grew smaller and smaller
And the sun watched from up above
Then one morning the sun woke up early
She smiled and stretched her beams wide
The world had been fully spring cleaned
It was time to go back outside
We opened our doors oh so slowly
And breathed in the clean and fresh air
We promised that forever and always
Of this beautiful world wed take care
Now Im working from home By Thomas Y3
Now I’m working from home
It always makes me moan
My mum is trying her best
To help; to complete her quest!
The sun is shining, its nice and warm
To work or play? Im too torn!
Finding a balance is a big task
Are you working? I hear you ask
The daily vlog from school is really good
Keeps us in touch like only Mrs H could
Im missing my friends and playing tig
Talking about Minecraft and chasing that pig
Well be back soon, ready to learn
Our uniforms on with energy to burn
Well be happy to work, happy to play
When we return it will be a good day
The world for now is quiet By Harry Y5
The world for now is quiet
There is a cloud in the sky
Full of germs and sadness
And it keeps on floating by
The world is not as we know it
Its changed overnight
The schools are closed for now
But in the end it will be alright
The world needs the sunshine now
To chase the cloud away
Everyone to stay at home
Until a brighter day
The world is all okay again
Theres a bustle on the street
Well remember this quiet time
And well celebrate we got it beat
A place full of hustle and bustle By George Y6
A place full of hustle and bustle
Friendship everywhere
Now its just a place full of despair
Friends separated until who knows when
As quiet as a mouse
Not even allowed to leave our house
The streets deserted
Everyone locked away
When will the world return to normal
Nobody knows
When will friends reunite once more
When will the school be once again flooded with hustle and bustle
When will the playgrounds be once again filled with laughter and joy
From girl to boy
The future no one can predict
However we can make it.
I dont know what to do right now By Mrs Stevens
I dont know what to do right now
Things are so strange
Keep thinking about going to work
But obviously things have changed
I feel so lost without those I see everyday
Its just not normal in anyway
I am at home with my son
Trying to do things we have never done
Its so hard at this moment in time
I miss the children after lunch getting in a line
Looking after them at lunch
Watching them laugh and play
Cant wait to see this again one day
Missing each every one of you
Its staff and children too
Everyone take care and hope to see you soon
A Rainbow. By Lucas Y3
A Rainbow
Is as red as apples crunching
Is as orange as leaves blowing
Is as yellow as the sun shining
Is as green as frogs jumping
Is as blue as the sky turning
Is as violet as flowers dancing
Lock down By Eliza Y6
L: Life is very different at home
O: Out to dinner? More like out of the question
C: Cant stop stressing
K: Knowing what to do is hard
D: Down time is essential
O: Outside everything is shut
W: When I look outside theres nothing there
N: Nothing to do at all
Leavers poem By Darcie Y6
Its time to go
End of Primary is here
What a wonderful school year
Ill miss my friends
Ill miss the staff
Ill miss the way we all laugh
F1 we built a tower
F2 we planted a flower
Y1 we tied our shoe laces
Y2 we chose a story from the book cases
Y3 we played lots of sports
Y4 were dinosaurs meaning a mixture of all sorts
Y5 PGL was our trip
Y6 was all about IKIC
Ive loved the years we have all shared
Its time to move on and Im a little bit scared
Its time to go, the fun weve had
Memories weve shared of course we will be sad
Its time to leave
Our goals at The Ellis were achieved
Lockdown By Freddie Y6
Luckily we are safe from this invisible, life-stealing virus
Obnoxiously people still amble across the streets
Chaotically shoppers panic-buy, the shelves empty
Kind-heartedly the NHS still work hard, while we relax
Dauntingly our elderly are in quarantine (12 weeks)
Ominously the death tolls rise, like a tsunami engulfing the world
Wickedly the virus spreads its germs like wild-fire
Noticeably the streets are quieter now..
Empty Coat Pegs By Mrs Trotter
I glance up at the classroom clock
It says its five to nine
I grab my coat and rush outside
To meet my Year 2 line
But the playground stands deserted
Not a soul or sound I hear
The realisation dawns on me
I fight to hold back to tears
I go back inside my classroom
A second home to me
I stand for a while, take it all in
This isnt how it should be
The chairs are stacked on tables
The coat pegs are empty too
Reading books upon the shelf
Waiting to be read but by who?
I walk into the school hall
No PE, assembly or singing
But then I close my eyes and listen
Their voices in my head are ringing
So I head into the staff room
Where all my friends should be
But the lights are turned off, no kettles are boiled
No queues for a cup of tea
I decide to switch on my computer
And a smile appears on my face
Photos on Twitter and Facebook
Our children are running this race
Amazing home learning completed
Children spending time at home
Or out walking, enjoying nature
Spotting rainbows as they roam
I think to myself how I used to joke
Without children, how lovely school would be!
All clean and tidy, no lost pumps or cardis
How wrong I was, I now see
Because without children, we just have a building
Its them that make it a school
Their laughter and learning and friendship
Sticking to our golden rules
I busy myself with my work
And soon it is time to go
I shut the school gates behind me
As I look back over my shoulder I know
This is just a moment in time
Which wont last forever youll see
And one day our future teachers
Will teach it in history
Our school doors will open again
And one thing you can be sure
Is that all the staff will be waiting
With huge smiles for you at the door
So until then Ill clap for key workers
To say thank you for all that they do
But to every Ellis child out there
I am also clapping for you
Covid-19 By Marilyn Burke
Coronavirus
Oh what a performance
In the year twenty twenty
People are panic buying and loo roll aisles are empty
Everyone pushing and forming a queue
Theres hardly owt left for such as me and you
Im 73 now and doing as Im told
Im self isolating you see
And as loo rolls are like gold
Im going back to the days of old
When there wasnt such a thing
Wed cut newspapers into squares
And tie them on a nail with a piece of string
The Year 2020 By Marilyn Burke
Around the world our lives are on hold
Around the world we have to do as were told
We have to stay at home and stop the spread of this disease
It will save our lives so please, please, please
I know children will miss a hug from their gran
But theyll be able to cuddle you as soon as they can
And teenagers will miss going out with their pals
So try and have patience you great guys and gals
So lets look to the future when all will be fine
And well all get through this fearful time
Then one day future generations will look back and theyll know
How brave their families were in the days of long ago
Lockdown By Mrs Broadbent
Life is different now its lockdown
The roads are clear
Less hustle and bustle
Theres no one near
Stay home – Be safe – Protect the NHS
Outside things are changing
Natures beauty is revealed
Clean air can be breathed
The world appears to be healed
Stay home – Be safe – Protect the NHS
The classrooms are empty
No laughing or learning can be heard
Its online learning now
Only Powerpoint, Zoom or Word
Stay home – Be safe – Protect the NHS
Keyworkers are now the heroes
Not the rich or famous
No PPE is available
The pressure is enormous
Stay home – Be safe – Protect the NHS
People clap to show their appreciation
Neighbours are finally talking
Strangers say hello
As they pass for their hour of walking
Stay home – Be safe – Protect the NHS
Lets try to remember the lessons weve learned
Try to slow down
Dream of a future
Where theres no illness around
Stay home – Be safe – Protect the NHS
By Delaney
Im writing this for everyone to have hope and belief in themselves through this hard and harsh time
You know how you and other people can struggle through time but that is not the answer
We need hope, we need to believe in ourselves and everybody else
We cant give up, we need to persevere and keep on going to help the NHS save lives
We wont stop now or ever, never give up hope or belief
We can do this together
And remember no matter what happens we are in this together
Stay in, stay safe with your family, at all times please
And remember social distancing at all times
When this is over, thank the NHS for saving lives
Remember to be yourself with hope and belief
Stay in touch with your family members and friends too
Stay strong, always.
The Day The Earth Woke Up
One day the earth woke up
She didnt like what she saw
She decided to have a lockdown
So pollution was no more
She told the people to stay inside
Now they had time to think
The buildings and schools were closed
The number of traffic began to shrink
Birds began to sing a song
Less smoke was in the air
Trees grew back in the rainforest
Ice caps returned for the polar bear
And the plastic in the ocean went
No litter on the land
Children ran and played in fields
The earth proudly could then stand.
The Rainbow Children
The history books will talk of now
That time the world stood still
When every family stayed at home
Waved out from windowsills
At those they loved but could not hold
Because they loved them so
Yet whilst they did they noticed all the flowers to grow
The sun came out they can recall
And windows rainbows filled
They kicked a football in their yards
Until the night drew in
They walked each day but not too close
That time the world stood still
When people walked straight down the roads
That once the cars did fill
They saw that people became ill
They knew the world was scared
But whilst the world stood still they saw
How much the whole world cared
They clapped on Thursdays from their doors
They cheered for the brave
For people who would risk their lives
So others could be saved
The schools closed down they missed their friends
They missed their teachers so
Their Mams and Dads helped with their work
They helped their minds to grow
The parents used to worry that
As schools were put on hold
Their children wouldnt have the tools
Theyd need as they grew old
But history books will talk of them
Now adults fully grown
Those little boys and girls back then
The ones who stayed at home
Theyll tell you that they fixed this world
Of all they would fulfil
The RAINBOW children building dreams
Theyd dreamed whilst time stood still.