PRIMARY schools across the area have been welcoming back some pupils this week as lockdown restrictions ease.

The Government announced primary schools could open their doors to nursery, reception, Year 1 and Year 6 children this week.

Essex County Council says around 75 per cent of schools were in a position to reopen on Monday.

Some schools, including St Andrew’s in Halstead and Earls Colne Primary, reopened later in the week.

The move to open school has seen a mixed reaction from parents with some happy to see their children return to classes and others remaining sceptical.

Parents can decide to keep children at home if they want.

Much of the resistance surrounding children returning to schools comes from fears over maintaining social distancing.

Schools have put measures in place, such as outdoor classrooms and staggered pick-ups and drop-offs to increase safety.

Despite schools having measures in place, some parents aren’t willing to take the risk.

Kiera Weston said: “I have a child in Year 6 and I would have loved for him to carry on his education and complete his SATs but they can’t guarantee the social distancing.

“I think having reception and Year 1 children who don’t understand social distancing would only put the older children at risk.

“So it is safer for my child to remain at home. My son’s school is also a small school so 15 kids in a classroom is a lot.”

Ally Hamer said: “I have a five-year-old in reception. He suffers with asthma and the government believes that him being close to his grandparents is a risk to them and him, but they are trying to make us believe that a load of five-year-olds in a room together from all different households isn’t a risk.

“The health of our children and family is of no concern to the Government as long as they can start making money off us again.”

However, some parents have put their trust in schools and are happy to send their children back, with concerns also raised over the damage the lockdown is doing.

Jade Shaughnessy said: “My daughter goes back tomorrow to Earls Colne. I’m more than happy for her to go as she is in Year 6.

“They have missed out on so much – their leavers’ trip, school play, leaving assembly and of course the disco which they love.

“I thought it was more important for her to be able to spend some time with her friends before moving on to secondary school.

“At her age they are all fully aware of what is going on and will be more able to socially distance.

“They have been stuck in with just their parents or guardians for 10 weeks now which I couldn’t imagine at her age.

“They need to say goodbye to friends moving to other schools.”

Stephanie Coleman said: “Both my girls went back to Holy Trinity on Monday.

“They were welcomed back with the biggest smiles from all of the teachers.

“The headteacher had done a video before the girls were due to go back perfectly explaining the new lay-out of the school and the new routine the children would have to follow, which made it a lot easier to prepare my girls for their new normal in school.

“My girls have enjoyed their first two days back and haven’t stopped speaking about it since being home!

“The school has put every bit of effort into the phased reopening and done a brilliant job!”